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Amaranth, which originated in what are now Central and South America, is actually a seed from a broadleaf plant. It was a staple food among the Aztecs, who mixed it with honey and human blood and consumed it during worship rituals. Because it’s practically gluten-free, amaranth is a good alternative to wheat.
Amaranth is used in cereals and in baked goods, such as crackers, cookies, and breads, and is available packaged as a whole grain or flour.
In baking, combine small amounts of amaranth with other flours. Or heat it in a heavy, dry skillet until the seeds pop, and serve it with milk and strawberries as a breakfast cereal. Or, steam amaranth with vegetable broth and serve it as a side dish with toasted sesame seeds. Steamed or boiled amaranth congeals as it cools, so it must be eaten right away.
Amaranth, 1 cup (195g)
Calories: 729
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrate: 129g
Total Fat: 12.7g
Fiber: 29.6g
*Excellent source of: Calcium (298mg), Iron (14.8mg), Magnesium (519mg),
and Folate (95.5mg)
*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value, based upon United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) guidelines. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the USDA Recommended Daily Value. Nutritional information and daily nutritional guidelines may vary in different countries. Please consult the appropriate organization in your country for specific nutritional values and the recommended daily guidelines.
Health benefits and concerns
for grains
Many health benefits and concerns associated with this food are applicable to other grains.
Read about health benefits and concerns for grains
for a full description.
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The information presented in Foodnotes is for informational purposes only and was created by a team of U.S. registered dietitians and food experts. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements, making dietary changes, or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2003.