Pearled Amaranth
Amaranthus hypochondriacusClinical Encyclopedia
Pearled amaranth is a highly nutritious grain known for its rich protein content and essential amino acids. It is gluten-free and offers a variety of vitamins and minerals, making it a great addition to a balanced diet.
Macronutrient Ratio
Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g
Micronutrient DV% Score
Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value
Complete Micronutrient Breakdown
Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.
Vitamins
Minerals
Health Benefits
Possible Risks & Side Effects
How to Prepare & Consume
Rinse thoroughly before cooking. Cook in water or broth at a ratio of 1:2 for about 20 minutes until tender.
Smart Selection & Storage
Choose amaranth that is free from moisture and has a pleasant nutty aroma.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place to extend shelf life.
Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds
Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.
May help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
"Amaranth was a staple food for the Aztecs and is considered a superfood due to its high nutrient density."
Myths vs Realities
Healthy Recipes
Pearled Amaranth Breakfast Bowl
Start your day with a nutritious breakfast bowl featuring pearled amaranth, fresh fruits, and a drizzle of honey for sweetness.
- 1 cup pearled amaranth
- 2 cups water
- 1 banana, sliced
- 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1. Rinse the pearled amaranth under cold water and combine it with water in a pot.
- 2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes until the amaranth is fluffy.
- 3. Serve in a bowl topped with banana slices, blueberries, honey, and chia seeds.
Savory Amaranth and Vegetable Stir-Fry
A vibrant stir-fry packed with colorful vegetables and nutty pearled amaranth, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner.
- 1 cup cooked pearled amaranth
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and add the bell pepper, zucchini, and broccoli.
- 2. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
- 3. Add the cooked amaranth and soy sauce, stirring to combine and heat through.
Amaranth Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette
This refreshing salad combines pearled amaranth with mixed greens and a zesty citrus vinaigrette for a light meal.
- 1 cup cooked pearled amaranth
- 2 cups mixed greens
- 1 orange, segmented
- 1/4 cup walnuts, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cooked amaranth, orange segments, and walnuts.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice to make the vinaigrette.
- 3. Drizzle the vinaigrette over the salad and toss gently to combine.
Amaranth and Lentil Soup
A hearty and nutritious soup featuring pearled amaranth and lentils, perfect for a comforting meal.
- 1/2 cup pearled amaranth
- 1 cup green lentils
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and carrots until softened.
- 2. Add the lentils, amaranth, vegetable broth, and cumin, bringing to a boil.
- 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-35 minutes until lentils and amaranth are tender.
Amaranth-Stuffed Bell Peppers
Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a savory mixture of pearled amaranth, black beans, and spices for a filling dish.
- 4 bell peppers, halved
- 1 cup cooked pearled amaranth
- 1 can black beans, rinsed
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 cup corn
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish.
- 2. In a bowl, mix cooked amaranth, black beans, chili powder, corn, and salsa.
- 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and bake for 25-30 minutes.
Amaranth Porridge with Almonds and Berries
A warm and nourishing porridge made from pearled amaranth, topped with almonds and fresh berries for a delightful breakfast.
- 1 cup pearled amaranth
- 3 cups almond milk
- 1/4 cup almonds, sliced
- 1/2 cup strawberries, sliced
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1. Combine pearled amaranth and almond milk in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- 2. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until creamy.
- 3. Serve topped with sliced almonds, strawberries, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
Amaranth and Spinach Fritters
Crispy fritters made with pearled amaranth and fresh spinach, perfect as a snack or appetizer.
- 1 cup cooked pearled amaranth
- 2 cups spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup chickpea flour
- 1 egg
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1. In a bowl, mix cooked amaranth, spinach, chickpea flour, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Heat oil in a skillet and drop spoonfuls of the mixture to form fritters.
- 3. Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Amaranth and Quinoa Salad
A protein-packed salad combining pearled amaranth and quinoa with fresh vegetables and a tangy dressing.
- 1/2 cup cooked pearled amaranth
- 1/2 cup cooked quinoa
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked amaranth, quinoa, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes.
- 2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar and olive oil.
- 3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
Amaranth Energy Bites
Nutritious energy bites made with pearled amaranth, nut butter, and seeds, perfect for a quick snack.
- 1 cup cooked pearled amaranth
- 1/2 cup almond butter
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut
- 1. In a bowl, mix cooked amaranth, almond butter, honey, pumpkin seeds, and shredded coconut until well combined.
- 2. Form the mixture into small balls and place them on a baking sheet.
- 3. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set before serving.
Amaranth and Roasted Vegetable Bowl
A nourishing bowl filled with roasted vegetables and pearled amaranth, drizzled with tahini dressing for added flavor.
- 1 cup cooked pearled amaranth
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 2 tablespoons tahini
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and toss the vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- 2. Roast the vegetables for 20-25 minutes until tender.
- 3. Serve the roasted vegetables over cooked amaranth and drizzle with tahini and lemon juice.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is pearled amaranth gluten-free?
Yes, pearled amaranth is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten intolerance.
How do you cook pearled amaranth?
Rinse it well and cook it in a 1:2 ratio of amaranth to water for about 20 minutes.
What are the health benefits of pearled amaranth?
It is high in protein, fiber, and essential minerals, supporting overall health.
Can I use pearled amaranth in baking?
Yes, you can use it as a gluten-free flour substitute in various recipes.
How should I store pearled amaranth?
Store in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
Is pearled amaranth suitable for weight loss?
Yes, its high fiber content can help you feel full longer, aiding in weight management.
Can I eat pearled amaranth raw?
It is recommended to cook pearled amaranth before consumption for better digestibility.
What is the glycemic index of pearled amaranth?
The glycemic index of pearled amaranth is approximately 35, making it a low-GI food.