30+ Amaranth

Spanish conquistadors threatened to chop off the hands or execute any indigenous people growing amaranth. They saw its use in spiritual practices as a threat to Christianity. In response, seeds were preserved and secretly grown. In 1960s Guatemala, amaranth was threatened again during the state suppression of the Mayan people and culture. Once again, seeds were hidden in glass jars under floorboards and buried in fields. Today it is still a niche crop in Central America and the export market is dominated by China and India.

Amaranth is considered a complete protein because it contains all nine essential amino acids. It is high in manganese and has good levels of copper, magnesium, phosphorous, iron, selenium and fibre. It also contains zinc, calcium, potassium, B1, B2, B3, B6 and B9. Its phytonutrients are anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. They are cardio and neuro protective.

Amaranth can be made into porridge or added to overnight oats. It can be eaten like rice and used in risottos, tabboulehs, stews, salads and stuffed peppers. Amaranth flour can be used with other flours to bake bread, cookies, cakes and pancakes. The flour is gluten free. The flour can also be used to thicken sauces.