Organic Amaranth Bulk Grains and Foods

Amaranth as a Garden Plant

Amaranth grows well in the Midwest and Western states of the U.S. and is quite drought resistant, although it does need enough moisture to germinate. Amaranth seeds are quite small and need to be planted directly into a well-established garden bed after the last frost. While other leafy greens bolt once the days lengthen and temperatures rise, amaranth greens remain tender and delicious. Amaranth seeds can be harvested around 3 months after planting but their leaves are ready to be harvested shortly after planting.

Popular Uses

Both the leaves and seeds of the Amaranth can be utilized, making it incredibly versatile. Amaranth is commonly used as a gluten-free grain substitute and is very similar to quinoa. Amaranth can be popped like popcorn, used as the base for a breakfast porridge and grain bowls, or added into soups. Amaranth seeds can be ground into a flour for a gluten-free flour substitute. Amaranth leaves can even be used as a spinach substitute!

• Breakfast foods
• Soups & stews
• Baking
• Salads

History

Amaranth seeds are an ancient crop that dates back to 8,000 years ago in Argentina. There is some debate over the origin of amaranth, some argue that there are two distinct varieties, one of which originated in Asia and the other in the Americas, or that amaranth made its way from the Americas to Asia through trade.

Amaranth held particular significance in ceremonies held during the Aztec empire. One such ceremony honored Huitzlipochtli, the god of war. An image of the god was created out of honey and amaranth and was divided up at the end of the ceremony and served to those attending. Popped amaranth and honey is still a delicious treat enjoyed in South and Central America. Amaranth was also a staple grain in Southeast Asia and China and is used for its tender greens in Africa.

Health Benefits

Amaranth seeds and sprouts are an excellent source of fiber and are rich in vitamins and minerals. Amaranth leaves are incredibly rich in the plant compounds beta-carotene and lutein, more so than most leafy greens! Many plants have low lysine (an amino acid) levels, not so with amaranth! Because of this, lysine contains all 9 essential amino acids, making it a complete plant protein.