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Kiwicha (Amaranthus
Caudatus Linnaeus) aka Amaranth |
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| Amaranth has
been touted as a miracle grain, a supergrain, and the grain of the
future: A dietary staple of the Aztec empire, this ancient crop was
"lost" for hundreds of years, and only since the Sixties,
following its rediscovery, has it been grown in the U.S |
Amaranth,
which has a pronounced earthy sweetness, is not a true grain, which
is a nutritional plus: Unlike wheat or barley, amaranth is not deficient
in the essential amino acid lysine. These tiny seeds of a weed-like
plant are also a very rich source of iron, and supply copper and
magnesium. And amaranth is well supplied with dietary fiber. Amaranth
can be cooked alone, or combined with grains such as brown rice
or buckwheat, and the seeds can be toasted until they pop like popcorn
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| Preparation
The whole seeds, when simmered, produce a thick, oatmeal-like porridge
that has a gelatinous texture many find unpalatable. To make amaranth
more appetizing, cook a small proportion (up to 15%) of it with
another grain (or grains), such as brown rice or buckwheat; follow
the cooking instructions for the predominant grain rather than for
the amaranth. The seeds can also be baked or steamed. If cooked
alone, amaranth benefits from the addition of a strong-flavored
cooking liquid, such as beef broth or tomato juice.
Popping: The grains can be toasted as you would
sesame or poppy seeds; they pop and puff like popcorn (although
much smaller of course). Toast just a tablespoonful of the seeds
at a time in a heavy, ungreased skillet, tossing and stirring them
over high heat for a few seconds until they pop. One tablespoon
will produce about 1/4 cup of popped amaranth.
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Nutrition Information
Amaranth/1/4 cup raw
Calories 182
Total fat (g) 3.1
Saturated fat (g) 0.8
Monounsaturated fat (g) 0.7
Polyunsaturated fat (g) 1.4
Dietary fiber (g) 7.4
Protein (g) 7
Carbohydrate (g) 32
Cholesterol (mg) 0
Sodium (mg) 10
Copper (mg) 0.4
Iron (mg) 3.7
Magnesium (mg) 130
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The products
described are intended solely as food supplements to enhance general health,
and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Nothing listed here should be considered as medical advice. You should
consult your health care professional for individual guidance for specific
health problems. |
