Amaranth was already being cultivated by the Aztecs 8,000 years ago. It is the only grain with a documented vitamin C content and is gluten-free. It offers unusually high levels of protein (higher than most other grains). Amaranth contains a whopping 20 grams of fiber per serving, higher than wheat, com, rice or soybeans.
The amaranth flower has been used as a symbol of immortality since the time of Ancient Greece with its name meaning “one that does not wither,” or the never-fading flower. Such use is seen in works of poetry, fables, and songs.
It is a gluten-free grain with a great nutty flavour and a smooth creamy texture when cooked. This is one of my favourite comfort-food breakfasts!
In Mexico, a sweet is made from popped amaranth that is mixed with sugar or honey called “dulce de alegria” or “sweet delight.” They are shaped into small skulls and given on the “Day of the Dead” celebration on October 31 and November 1 of each year.
Maple Staple Amaranth Porridge
Servings: 3
Ingredients
- 750 ml water
- 185 grams amaranth
- 200 ml unsweetened almond milk
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil
Suggested Toppings
- Figs, blueberries, sliced almonds, pumpkin seeds, cranberries.
Instructions
- In a medium pot, bring the water to a boil and add the amaranth
- Cook over low heat, with the lid on, for 20 minutes or until most of the water has been absorbed
- While the amaranth is cooking, make sure to stir occasionally
- Once done, remove from the stove, and add the almond milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and coconut oil to the pot
- Stir in well, and then serve into bowls
- Top with any of the suggested toppings or your favorite fruits, nuts, and/or seeds!
- If you’re eating alone, store the leftovers in the fridge for up to a week. When it’s time to reheat, add some additional almond milk and mix it in so the porridge isn’t so thick. Enjoy!
Amaranth: Strengthen Qi, Resolve dampness, resolve water accumulations, Benefits the Lungs, Clears Liver Fire. Maple Syrup: Warms the Lungs and assists expectoration of Cold Phlegm. Stops chronic bleeding caused by Cold. Strengthens the Middle Jiao, Moistens the Intestines, Tonify Qi. Cinnamon: Warms the Spleen and Kidneys, Tonifies the Yang, Expels Cold, Warms the meridians, Promotes circulation of Qi. Figs: build Spleen Qi and Yang and benefit the Stomach. Blueberries: nourish Yin and Blood, and benefit the Liver. Almonds: Strengthens Jing, Qi, Shen, Smooth flow of Qi, resolves phlegm. Pumpkin Seeds: Tonify Qi, Circulates Blood, Disperses Cold, Clears damp, Resolves phlegm. Cranberries: benefit the Bladder and Kidney, remove toxins from the Blood, clear Heat, open the Lungs, promote digestion and regulate appetite. Resolves Damp.
James O’Sullivan - that's me, a people friendly practitioner and lecturer of Integrated Medicine, serving my patients, my students and the public with the positive benefits of both Conventional Western Medicine and Traditional Chinese Medicine. It's a wonderful life
Disclaimer: This article is not intended to diagnose or assess. The information provided is not to be considered a substitute for consultation with a qualified health care practitioner.
