Amaranth Porridge

Every week I pick a few grains to batch cook (make a whole bunch at once). That way I have them on hand for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks all week long. This week I chose amaranth and forbidden rice! I have been enjoying hot amaranth for breakfast every day and I finally had to share. 

I posted a recipe awhile back about the unique ability of amaranth to pop, much like popcorn. But I am now discovering how rich and creamy if becomes when cooked like porridge. I seriously wondered if someone had snuck in and added butter to my wholesome grains while I was letting them simmer. That is how delicious it tastes!

Amaranth Porridge

Ingredients

• 1 cup amaranth
• 2 cups water

Preparation Instructions

1. Bring amaranth and water to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
3. Makes 4 servings.

Serving Suggestions

• I added ¼ cup pecans, 4 chopped deglet noor dates & 1 tsp honey.

Fuel Facts

Numbers: 450 calories, 10 g protein, 20 g fat, 60 g carbs, 11 g fiber

            *For ¼ of amaranth recipe with suggested serving of pecans, dates & honey

Numbers: 180 calories, 7 g protein, 3 g fat, 31 g carbs, 7 g fiber

            *For just ¼ of the amaranth recipe

Ingredient Breakdown:

v Amaranth – This gluten-free grain is high in protein and contains the amino acid lysine, often missing in other grains, making it a complete protein source. In 2008 scientists discovered the presence of a lunasin-like peptide within the amaranth protein. Lunasin is the peptide in soybeans that has been associated with preventing inflammation and cancer.

v Pecans - The nuts contain healthy fats and phytochemicals that help lower cholesterol. Antioxidants in pecans include ellagic acid, vitamin E, beta-carotene and lutein. They are also a great source of protein & fiber.

v Dates - One of nature's many gifts, dates are one of the best natural sweeteners. Not only are they sweet, but they contain high amounts of fiber, promoting good digestion & intestinal health.

v Honey – Due to the combination of glucose and fructose, honey will keep you energized longer than it’s sweet counterparts. Glucose is used quickly by the body, providing an immediate energy source. Fructose takes longer to absorb, sustaining blood sugar levels. When blood sugar is kept stable, your energy will also remain constant, so say goodbye to the afternoon crash.

Honey is also a great natural healer. For starters it is packed with polyphenols, antioxidants that have immune boosting properties to keep you from becoming sick. In addition, honey contains an enzyme that produces hydrogen peroxide which is why it is believed to be antibacterial in nature. Honey can be used topically to treat burns, wounds, and even acne. Honey fights off impurity-causing bacteria while also hydrating the skin.