Amaranth, a nutrient-rich grain that’s packed with protein, fiber, and various essential vitamins and minerals, has been gaining popularity in recent years. And for good reason! This superfood can be used in a variety of dishes, from sweet treats to savory meals. In this article, we’ll explore 20 delicious and nutritious amaranth recipes that are perfect for every meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast option or a hearty dinner solution, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with this versatile grain. From creamy porridges to flavorful stir-fries, and from decadent puddings to crunchy granola bars, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive into the world of amaranth and discover some amazing recipe ideas that will elevate your cooking game!
Creamy Amaranth Porridge with Berries
Warm up on a chilly morning with this nutritious and delicious Creamy Amaranth Porridge with Berries recipe. This gluten-free breakfast dish is packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup amaranth grain
– 2 cups water or plant-based milk (such as almond or soy milk)
– 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (fresh or frozen)
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or non-dairy alternative
Instructions:
1. Rinse the amaranth grain and soak it in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the amaranth again, then transfer it to a medium saucepan with the water or plant-based milk, honey or maple syrup, and salt.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the porridge has thickened and the amaranth is tender.
4. Stir in the mixed berries and butter or non-dairy alternative.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the berries are heated through.
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional berries if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Amaranth and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the nutty taste of amaranth with a medley of colorful vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked amaranth
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snow peas)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
4. Stir in the cooked amaranth, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Amaranth and Black Bean Burgers
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of amaranth with the rich, earthy taste of black beans to create a unique and delicious burger patty.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup amaranth flour
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, tomato, lettuce, and your favorite burger toppings
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mash the black beans using a fork or a potato masher.
2. Add the oats, amaranth flour, onion, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well until combined.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Cook the patties in a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, until lightly browned and crispy.
5. Serve immediately on a bun with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spiced Amaranth Pancakes with Maple Syrup
Start your day with a delicious and nutritious breakfast by whipping up a batch of Spiced Amaranth Pancakes with Maple Syrup. This recipe combines the nutty flavor of amaranth flour with warm spices and the sweetness of maple syrup for a truly unique breakfast experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup amaranth flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons melted butter
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cinnamon, ginger, baking powder, and salt.
2. In another bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Cook on a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until bubbles appear on the surface.
5. Serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Amaranth and Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto combines the nutty flavor of amaranth with the earthy taste of mushrooms, making for a unique and satisfying vegetarian dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup arborio rice
– 2 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1/4 cup amaranth grains, toasted
– 2 tablespoons white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until coated with oil and slightly toasted.
3. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
4. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in the mixed mushrooms and cooked amaranth grains.
5. If using white wine, add it during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
6. Remove from heat, then stir in the butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 25-30 minutes
Crunchy Amaranth Granola Bars
Get ready to snack on a healthier treat! These crunchy amaranth granola bars are packed with nutritious ingredients, including the ancient grain amaranth and sweet dried cranberries.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup puffed amaranth
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 1/4 cup chopped almonds
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8×8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together oats, amaranth, and almonds.
3. In a separate bowl, combine honey, maple syrup, and coconut oil. Microwave for 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Fold in dried cranberries. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Amaranth and Chickpea Salad Bowl
This salad bowl combines the nutty flavor of amaranth with the creamy texture of chickpeas, perfect for a quick and healthy meal. With its vibrant colors and satisfying crunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked amaranth
– 1 can chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked amaranth, chickpeas, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( prep time: 10 minutes)
Sweet Amaranth Pudding with Coconut Milk
Sweet Amaranth Pudding with Coconut Milk Recipe
This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of amaranth with the creamy richness of coconut milk, creating a delicious and unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup amaranth grains, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or plant-based milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– Pinch of vanilla powder (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the amaranth grains and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed amaranth, water or plant-based milk, sugar, and salt.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the amaranth is tender and creamy.
4. Stir in the unsweetened coconut milk and honey (if using).
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
7. Just before serving, sprinkle with vanilla powder (if using) and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Amaranth-Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of amaranth with the sweetness of bell peppers, creating a nutritious and visually appealing dish. Perfect for a healthy dinner or as a vegetarian option.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked amaranth
– 1/2 cup black beans, cooked
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together amaranth, black beans, cilantro, olive oil, lime juice, and cumin.
4. Stuff each pepper with the amaranth mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Hearty Amaranth and Lentil Soup
This nutrient-dense soup is a perfect blend of ancient grains, legumes, and spices, packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. Perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup amaranth grain
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add amaranth grain, lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until grains are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Amaranth and Spinach Frittata
Elevate your breakfast game with this protein-packed frittata, featuring the nutritious powerhouses amaranth and spinach. This recipe is a great way to start your day with a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 cup cooked amaranth grain
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and season with salt and pepper.
3. Add cooked amaranth grain and chopped spinach to the egg mixture; stir well.
4. Pour the mixture into a greased 9-inch pie plate or skillet.
5. Top with shredded cheese (if using) and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until eggs are set and frittata is golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Gluten-Free Amaranth Banana Bread
Enjoy a moist and flavorful banana bread that’s perfect for snacking or serving at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup amaranth flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1 large egg
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Optional: nuts or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together gluten-free flour, amaranth flour, baking soda, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, mashed bananas, egg, and vanilla extract. Stir until smooth.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients, mixing until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
6. Let cool on wire rack before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 55-60 minutes
Amaranth and Quinoa Tabbouleh
This recipe combines the nutritional benefits of amaranth and quinoa with the freshness of tabbouleh, making it a perfect side dish for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked amaranth
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked amaranth, quinoa, parsley, scallions, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the grain mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (assuming cooked amaranth and quinoa)
Cheesy Amaranth Polenta with Herbs
Elevate your side dish game with this creamy and herbaceous polenta recipe, infused with the nutty flavor of amaranth.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups amaranth grain
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (vegetarian)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the amaranth grain and soak it in water or broth for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the amaranth, then combine with olive oil, onion, garlic, and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Remove from heat and stir in grated cheddar cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add chopped parsley and thyme, season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Amaranth and Sweet Potato Hash
This sweet and savory hash is a perfect blend of nutritious amaranth, sweet potatoes, and spices. With its nutty flavor and satisfying crunch, it’s an ideal side dish or base for your favorite breakfast or brunch recipes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 cups cooked amaranth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together sweet potato, amaranth, cilantro, and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the sweet potato mixture to the skillet; stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Refreshing Amaranth and Fruit Smoothie
This Refreshing Amaranth and Fruit Smoothie is a perfect blend of nutritious ingredients, packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants to keep you energized throughout the day. With its subtle nutty flavor, it’s a great way to sneak in some extra amaranth goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen mixed berries
– 1/2 cup cooked amaranth grain
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine frozen berries, cooked amaranth grain, sliced banana, and honey.
2. Blend until smooth, adding Greek yogurt and almond milk as needed to achieve desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust sweetness or texture if desired.
4. Pour into a glass and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Amaranth-Crusted Baked Chicken
Elevate your baked chicken game with this innovative recipe that combines the nutritional benefits of amaranth with the rich flavor of spices. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a healthy meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup amaranth flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together amaranth flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Dip each chicken breast into the flour mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place coated chicken breasts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Amaranth and Cornbread Muffins
Brighten up your morning with these vibrant, flavorful muffins that combine the nutty taste of amaranth with the warmth of cornbread.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup amaranth flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flours, baking powder, salt, and cayenne pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, honey, and melted butter.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in cornmeal and amaranth flour.
6. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
7. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Amaranth and Kale Stuffed Shells
Elevate the traditional stuffed shells recipe with the addition of nutritious amaranth and kale. This vegetarian-friendly dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 cup cooked amaranth
– 2 cups chopped kale, stems removed
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add chopped kale and cook until wilted. Stir in cooked amaranth and season with salt and pepper.
4. In a mixing bowl, combine ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg. Add the cooked kale mixture and mix well.
5. Stuff each pasta shell with the amaranth-kale filling.
6. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish and cover with marinara sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Decadent Amaranth Chocolate Chip Cookies
Decadent Amaranth Chocolate Chip Cookies Recipe
Elevate your cookie game with the nutty flavor and nutritional boost of amaranth, paired with rich chocolate chips.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup amaranth flour
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
• Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together oats, flour, amaranth flour, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, about 2 inches apart.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Yield: About 24 cookies
Summary
Discover the versatility and nutritional benefits of amaranth with these 20 delicious recipes! From breakfast to dinner, snacks to desserts, this ancient grain offers a world of flavor and health. Enjoy creamy porridge, savory stir-fries, hearty soups, and more. Whether you’re looking for gluten-free options or simply seeking inspiration for a healthy meal, these recipes are sure to satisfy. Get creative with amaranth pancakes, burgers, risotto, and even baked goods like banana bread and chocolate chip cookies. Explore the power of amaranth in this comprehensive collection!
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