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.
Makes 2 servings.
Ingredients:
- 75 grams whole-grain amaranth
- 500 ml filtered water
- 60 ml hemp seeds or pumpkin seeds
- 2 tsp (15 ml) raw honey
- 1 tsp (5 ml) cinnamon
- 125 ml blueberries or dried cranberries
- 1 medium pear, chopped
Instructions:
- Amaranth’s sticky consistency calls for a cast-iron or titanium surface to minimize heavy clean-up_ If you don’t have a natural non-stick skillet, you can use a heavy 2- quart (2 L) saucepan, but make sure to stir the porridge frequently to avoid sticking.
- Combine the amaranth and water in a skillet with a tight-fitting lid.
- Bring to boil, cover, and turn down to low heat. Simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring once every 10 minutes to ensure the grains don’t stick to the pot, until the liquid is completely absorbed.
- Remove from heat and add the seeds, raw honey and cinnamon, stirring well. Divide the hot cereal between two bowls (or put one portion in a sealable container for the next day), and top with blueberries and pear.
Amaranth: Strengthen Qi, Resolve dampness, resolve water accumulations, Benefits the Lungs, Clears Liver Fire. Cinnamon: Warms the Spleen and Kidneys, Tonifies the Yang, Expels Cold, Warms the meridians, Promotes circulation of Qi. 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. Hemp Seeds: Moistens the Intestines and unblocks Food Stagnation caused by Dryness. Nourishes the Yin and relieves constipation caused by Yin Deficiency. Cools Heat and aids healing of sores. Pears: Nourish Yin, Clear heat, Resolve phlegm. Produces fluids, eliminates mucus, Lubricates dryness. Blueberries: nourish Yin and Blood and benefit the Liver.
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.
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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.