How to Puff Amaranth

Enjoyed by the Aztecs, few in the United States have heard of amaranth. It appears in gluten-free products as an alternative to wheat flour. The seeds of amaranth can puff up like popcorn when cooked. Amaranth makes a healthy addition to any diet as it offers high amounts of calcium and fiber. Look for amaranth seeds at health food stores and on the Internet. When puffing the seeds, cover the pan with a see-through lid or splatter screen to monitor the progress of the seeds.

Things You'll Need

• Skillet
• Glass lid or splatter screen
• 1/2 cup amaranth seeds
• Sugar syrup (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the dry skillet over medium heat.

2. Pour the amaranth seeds into the hot pan and cover with the lid.

3. Shake the pan with one hand while holding the lid down with the other. Continue to shake the pan for 1 to 2 minutes while the amaranth seeds cook and puff.

4. Remove the pan from the heat when you see all of the seeds have puffed.

5. Transfer the seeds to a bowl and top with a sugar syrup if desired, or serve as an alternative side dish to rice or potatoes.

References

• University of Virginia Health System: Whole Grains and the Gluten Free Diet
• Chow: Popped Amaranth Granola Recipe
• Chow: What Else Besides Corn Pops?

Resources

• US Aid: Amaranth - Modern Prospects for an Ancient Grain