{"title":"Amaranth","description":"\u003ch2 id=\"amaranth-grain-vegetable-or-decor\"\u003eAmaranth: Grain, Vegetable, or Decor\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAs stated, this gluten-free “grain” is not actually a grain at all. Rather, the seed grows from a prevalent plant whose tenacity has, historically, offered a vital benefit to developing civilizations. Originally harvested in Mexico, this pseudocereal was once the central staple of the Aztec empire and played a significant role in its culture. Currently, the seed is still enjoyed in Mexico, Peru, Guatemala, China and Russia. It also serves as a valuable staple in parts of Africa, India, and Nepal; however, it is grown in much smaller quantities.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe grain’s initial popularity was, in part, due to its versatility; it can be prepared in a number of ways and is easy to cook. Certainly, another major factor in the seed’s former ubiquity is its immense nutritive value. When prepared properly, amaranth acts as a complete protein while also providing numerous other nutrients. But lastly, what may have been the most significant factor to the grain’s past pervasive presence is its plant's proficient self-propagation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThough the genus of \u003cem\u003eAmaranthus\u003c\/em\u003e contains a diverse assortment of different species, only three serve to supply the seeds that are harvested as grains while most others are classified as noxious weeds. In spite of this fact, a variety of amaranth plants are harvested for their leaves or used as decorative houseplants. Amaranth leaves provide a leafy vegetable loaded with vitamins and minerals; these leaves can be harvested from four species of amaranth plants, only one of which- \u003cem\u003eAmaranthus cruentus\u003c\/em\u003e- also produces the pseudocereal seeds.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"amaranth-nutrition\"\u003eAmaranth Nutrition\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe hereditary origins of amaranth, which is a relative of plants such as beets, spinach, and quinoa, give it a rich nutritional profile. The grain is rich in protein and more than 10% of the seed is composed of various forms of the nutrient. One of the features that makes it such a potentially valuable staple is that it provides an appropriate proportion of the nine essential amino acids that humans and other animals need in their diet. This is particularly valuable to those with restrictive diets such as vegetarians and those suffering from Celiac disease.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe protein content of the grain is only one benefit it provides as the seed also contains an abundant supply of fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The fiber content of these small seeds is greater than that of any other gluten-free grain, setting it apart from even superfoods like quinoa. As for other nutrients, a single cup of amaranth offers a full daily serving of manganese, magnesium, and phosphorus in addition to an ample amount of pyridoxine (vitamin B\u003csub\u003e6\u003c\/sub\u003e), iron, copper and selenium.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThese nutrients- in addition to vitamin C, vitamin E, riboflavin, folate, and pantothenic acid- offer a preponderance of benefits that has sparked a strong interest in the superbly nutritious kernel. As a complete protein, amaranth may help provide serious support to the maintenance and repair of muscle, bone, and skin. Perhaps more incredibly, its protein content may even support cardiovascular health. Aside from the benefits tied to protein, the fiber in amaranth helps support healthy gastrointestinal function, while its rich supply of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals may help neutralize free radicals and support the immune system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"how-to-cook-amaranth\"\u003eHow to Cook Amaranth\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmaranth was only recently reintroduced to the United States and has not been widely available for long. As such, many may be unfamiliar with the unique textures and tastes associated with the pseudocereal. Amaranth is extremely small with uncooked seeds a size comparable to that of poppy seeds. When popped or cooked, the kernels expand but remain no larger than those of quinoa or short-grain rice.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eEven when boiled and prepared like other grains, the seeds never lose the tough texture of their hulls. This results in a strange sensation in which the cooked seed seemingly pops only to reveal its soft exterior. The taste offered by the tiny treats is more familiar, however, and closely resembles that of quinoa, buckwheat and other cereal grains. Its earthy tones can further be accentuated by toasting the grain before it is cooked.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOne popular way to prepare the treat is to boil the mixture to create a texture and taste similar to rice and other side dishes. A second method explaining how to pop the seed to create dishes like alegría is also described below.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"to-boil-\"\u003eTo Boil:\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePlace three cups of water for every cup of amaranth you hope to cook into a medium to large pot.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBring the pot to a boil.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd the amaranth.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCover the pot and let it simmer for 20 - 25 minutes or until the water is absorbed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRinse the amaranth in a sieve.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eServe and enjoy!\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYield:\u003c\/strong\u003e Each cup of uncooked amaranth will produce approximately two cups of boiled amaranth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 id=\"to-pop-cook-in-batches-\"\u003eTo Pop (cook in batches):\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHeat a wide pan with a lid over medium-high heat.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eAdd 1 Tbsp. of amaranth to the pan and cover.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eLet cook for 30 seconds or until popped to preference.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eTransfer to a bowl.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eRepeat as needed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eYield:\u003c\/strong\u003e Approximately 3 Tbsp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"amaranth-flour\"\u003eAmaranth Flour\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhile boiled amaranth can be used as a side dish or hot cereal and popped amaranth can be eaten as a crunchy snack or candy, there are also many recipes that utilize the pseudocereal in its flour form. Similar to other pseudograin flours, the gluten-free feature of amaranth leaves baked goods unleavened; in other words, if you would like to produce cakes, breads, or anything that needs to raise- you will need to add a binding agent to your goods to keep your confection coherent and a starch to fuel your leavening agent.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis being said, for unleavened goods that embrace a crumbly texture like certain cookies and brownies, the ground grain is capable of completely fulfilling the role of other flours as a one-to-one replacement. Though it can, in these instances, act as a simple substitute- it is important to remember that whenever using amaranth flour, your recipe may require additional water to account for the unusually absorptive property of the grain.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"organic-amaranth","title":"Organic Amaranth","description":"\u003cp\u003eOrganic amaranth is a sweet, earthy, gluten-free grain. It's extremely high in protein, iron, and fiber, and is a staple in gluten-free diets. Amaranth is a versatile grain that can be enjoyed as part of a satisfying hot breakfast, in delectable cookies, in savory soups, and more!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"how-to-cook-amaranth\"\u003eHow to Cook Amaranth\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eUse 1\/2 cup amaranth to 1 1\/2 cups water, broth, or liquid. To cook, combine amaranth and liquid in a pot, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until all of the water is absorbed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"amaranth-cooking-ideas\"\u003eAmaranth Cooking Ideas\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmaranth is a gluten-free grain that offers versatility as well as flavor. There are many different methods to cook and eat organic amaranth, from cooking it like rice to popping it like popcorn!\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003col\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eA simple way to prepare amaranth is to boil it for about 15-20 minutes and add it to your morning cereal or toss it in a salad, similar to how you might eat couscous or quinoa.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ol\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e2. You can also grind it into amaranth flour to use in baked goods, potentially toasting it to bring out more of its nutty flavor before your grind it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e3. A fun way to eat amaranth is to pop it and season it like popcorn.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e4. Whole seed, cooked organic amaranth also goes well in soups, granolas, and bread.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"amaranth-grain-health-benefits\"\u003eAmaranth Grain Health Benefits\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmaranth is a Protein Powerhouse:\u003c\/strong\u003e Amaranth is made up of 13-14% protein, and it easily contains 30% more protein than other grains. Amaranth contains the \u003cstrong\u003eimportant amino acid lysine\u003c\/strong\u003e, which is not found in many grains and is vital for building muscle protein and helping the body run.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmaranth Contains More Fiber Than Any Other Gluten-Free Grain:\u003c\/strong\u003e One cup of amaranth contains 18g of fiber, more than any other gluten-free grain. In comparison, buckwheat and millet contain 17g and white rice contains 2.4g.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmaranth May Lower LDL \"bad\" Cholesterol Levels:\u003c\/strong\u003e Amaranth is one of the few grains that contain phytosterols, nutrients that play a major part in the prevention of many kinds of disease and may lower LDL cholesterol levels. University of Guelph researchers discovered that amaranth contains all three major phytosterols, which have cholesterol-lowering properties. These findings are published in the journal \u003cem\u003ePlant Foods for Human Nutrition.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmaranth Reduces Inflammation:\u003c\/strong\u003e A 2008 study published in the \u003cem\u003eJournal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry\u003c\/em\u003e identified the presence of bioactive peptides in amaranth, which are compounds that protect against inflammation associated with chronic conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmaranth is a Rich Source of Vitamins and Minerals:\u003c\/strong\u003e Amaranth is loaded with essential vitamins and minerals to keep your immune system strong and support your body's many functions. Amaranth boasts minerals like calcium, magnesium, zinc, potassium, and vitamins A, C, K, B5, B6, folate, and riboflavin.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAmaranth is Easy to Digest:\u003c\/strong\u003e Cooked amaranth is 90% digestible, making it easy on the digestive tract and also enabling your body to effectively use amaranth's rich source of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"storage-tips\"\u003eStorage Tips\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is best to store organic amaranth in a tightly sealed container, preferably a glass jar, in a cool, dark, dry location. Do not store organic amaranth in a cabinet near a stove, oven or dishwasher. If stored properly, organic amaranth can have a shelf life of up to one year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"amaranth-in-space\"\u003eAmaranth in Space\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1985, Amaranth literally took off! This grain took a ride out of the Earth's atmosphere on US Space Shuttle Atlantis' maiden voyage. Astronauts conducted tests growing amaranth on space and ate amaranth cookies during their mission.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"amaranth-in-history\"\u003eAmaranth in History\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAmaranth was the favored grain of the Aztec empire where it was also used in religious ceremonies. The Aztecs would use amaranth to build statues of their religious deities, such as their hummingbird god.  At the end of the celebrations, the statue would be broken down and eaten.  Hoping to discourage Aztec religious practices, the Spanish conquistadors banned the cultivation of amaranth and it grew only as a weed for hundreds of years.  Amaranth grain was re-discovered in the 1970s and its popularity resurged because of the grain's high nutritional content.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2 id=\"allergen-information\"\u003eAllergen Information\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMay Contain:\u003c\/strong\u003e Milk, Soy.\n\u003cstrong\u003eThis product is certified Kosher Pareve. Milk may be present. This is not a Kosher matter.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Nuts.com","offers":[{"title":"1lb bag","offer_id":67355372257302,"sku":"7507-01","price":6.49,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"5lb bag","offer_id":67355372290070,"sku":"7507-05","price":31.48,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"25lb case","offer_id":67355372322838,"sku":"7507-25","price":113.58,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0928\/8545\/0774\/files\/65ab3932d9845758-pMHyV0GX.jpg?v=1770329960"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0928\/8545\/0774\/collections\/9c7ee6b743210aef.jpg?v=1771205619","url":"https:\/\/nuts.com\/collections\/amaranth-329.oembed","provider":"Nuts.com","version":"1.0","type":"link"}