What is Amaranth porridge? Think ‘Cream of Wheat’ but made with miniature quinoa and you’ve got Amaranth porridge! And while we’re on the subject, doesn’t porridge just sound fun to eat? …Porridge…

Like Quinoa, Amaranth is a seed, not a grain. Its naturally Gluten-Free, which makes it a good breakfast alternative if you are trying to avoid Gluten.  It’s also a rich source of vitamins and minerals including potassium, phosphorus, calcium, vitamin C, and especially iron.

I also love that this is a protein-rich breakfast that you can really tailor to your mood. Its actually a complete protein, with all the essential amino acids. And it has a 13% percent protein content, which works out to about 9 grams per cup of cooked porridge.

I usually make a batch the night before so its ready for a quick fix up in the morning.  Any thing that you would do to dress up your oatmeal, you could do to this porridge. And after you’ve added all your ‘pieces of flare’,  things like hemp seeds, nuts, dried or fresh fruit, and a dash of non-dairy milk, you’ve got yourself a super nutrient-rich way to start your day!

Amaranth Porridge

Yield: 3 cups

Ingredients:

3 cups water

1 cup dried Amaranth

1/8 tsp salt

2 teaspoons maple syrup

1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

*1/2 teaspoon cinnamon- optional

Procedure:

In a medium saucepan add water, salt and Amaranth. Using a wooden spoon, stir until seeds are completely wet.

Heat over high until it begins to boil then lower to medium/low and let cook 25-30 minutes, stirring frequently until seeds have uncoiled and mixture has reached a porridge-like consistency.

*If it becomes too dry or in danger of scorching, add more water.

Take the pan off of the heat, cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Remove cover and add maple syrup, vanilla extract and cinnamon (if using). Stir well. Add water or non dairy milk to thin to desired consistency.

Serve with a splash of non-dairy milk and toppings of your choice.

You can also put it into a container in the refrigerator. It will get very thick so you may need to add a little water when you reheat it.