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Amaranth is a small but mighty grain with roots in the ancient Aztec Civilization. It has gained considerable popularity in recent years and is sought out for its great nutritional properties, unique taste, and diverse range of applications. Panhandle Milling offers a wide variety of amaranth products, from whole grains to flour to mixes. Learn more about amaranth and find some of our favorite amaranth recipes below!
While it may be one of the smallest grains, amaranth has a long history dating back to its use in ancient Aztec civilization. Like the more commonly recognized quinoa grain, the protein in amaranth has a good balance of essential amino acids, resulting in a high biological value. Amaranth is higher in mineral content than many other grains, most notably iron, zinc, and calcium.
Amaranth is naturally gluten-free, making it a versatile grain that can be used in a variety of delicious baking and cooking applications. It works well in multigrain blends for gluten-free baking and as a stand-alone for porridge-style dishes, both sweet and savory.
Please note that while Panhandle Milling’s amaranth grain is naturally gluten-free and is certified gluten-free, it is not produced in a facility that also processes wheat and wheat products. If you are interested in a certified gluten-free product, our sales team will be more than happy to discuss it with you.
While classified as a grain, amaranth is not in the same family as wheat or rice. One of the smallest grains, its appearance almost resembles that of a seed, and it is commonly referred to as such. In ancient Aztec civilization, it was often used to make tortillas, among other traditional foods.
While it’s not a one-to-one substitute for traditional wheat and wheat flour, amaranth is a great addition to nutritious grain blends for breads, crackers, cakes, and the like. Its earthy flavor profile can provide another dimension of complexity to your favorite dishes. If you or your customers are fans of quinoa or millet, amaranth would be a fabulous and on-trend grain to introduce into your product portfolio.
Panhandle Milling offers amaranth in its whole grain and flour forms in organic and non-organic varietals, ensuring you get the perfect product for your business and baking needs. We can service bulk customers, small-to-midsize bakeries, and those looking for retail products that are packaged and ready for the grocery store shelf.
Not sure which option best suits your needs? Our experts are ready to help you find the perfect amaranth product.
Because the flavor is relatively unchanged among the two product variants, it boils down to your personal preference or your customer’s preference. Organic bakeries, restaurants, CPG brands, and health food stores might find more success with Organic Amaranth among their consumer base. Alternatively, those searching for a lower-cost product may gravitate towards sourcing the conventional amaranth grain.
Our experienced and knowledgeable sales team is a great resource for any questions regarding our product portfolio, specifically whether conventional or organic amaranth will be best for you and your business.
At Panhandle Milling, we’re big believers in amaranth’s nutritional benefits (and amazing taste) and are excited to share some of our chef’s best amaranth recipes with you. Amaranth is commonly seen in porridges, riffs on polenta, and grits, and it is a “crunchy” element in baked goods, granolas, pancakes, and breads.
Below, you’ll find delicious base recipes for everything from porridge to amaranth popcorn to a riff on a traditional Southern comfort food classic.
Fortunately, cooking amaranth is about as easy as it gets! With only two ingredients and steps, you’ll have a hearty bowl of amaranth in no time. However, be sure not to let the amaranth grain overcook, as it tends to get soggy if it’s left to overcook!
1 Cup Specialty Grains Organic Amaranth
2 1/2 Cups water
Directions:
The versatility of this grain is truly unmatched! Take a break from traditional corn popcorn and make delicious and nutritious amaranth popcorn in just a few easy steps! Add crunch in cookies, granola bars, brownies, peanut butter cups, and more.
1/4 cup Specialty Grains Organic Amaranth
You know that one recipe you can’t get enough of? You turn to it whenever you need something grounding and satisfying. For us, it’s this simple yet delicious amaranth grain dish. We’re putting a spin on the comfort food classic, cheese grits, by substituting amaranth for grits and calling out easy alternatives to make this dish 100% plant-based.
1 Cup Specialty Grains Organic Amaranth
3 Cups water
Salt, to taste
1 Cup sharp cheddar, shredded (can substitute dairy-free cheese shreds)
3 Tbsp cream cheese (can substitute non-dairy cream cheese)
Amaranth is great because it can be made sweet or savory, depending on what foods you pair it with. For a savory pairing, try sharp cheeses, smoky sausages, herbs, mushrooms, onions, and garlic. Want something sweeter? Throw on some honey, baked apples, unsalted nuts, cinnamon sugar, or coconut. Whatever your creation, tag us on Instagram so we can see all your delicious dishes!
