‘Thotakura'(Telugu name) In English it is called as ‘Amaranth’.

What is Amaranth Millet?

Amarnath is an ancient grain. It has been known to us for thousands of years. Nowadays, its health benefits are becoming popular. We have so many millets like foxtail, little millet, proso, pearl, kodo, etc.

There are many reasons to include these millets in your diet. Amaranth is a good source of protein. It has 13% of protein, which is very high compared to other grains. It has micronutrients like magnesium, iron, phosphorus, etc.

Amaranth seeds come from the amaranth plant. Today, the amaranth plant is grown in Asia, Africa, and North America. We have an available variety of amaranth plants. So, amaranth seeds come in various colors. Here are the common colors of amaranth seeds:

These colors indicate slight differences in taste, nutrient content, and antioxidant levels.

Nutrtion

Below are the nutritional values of amaranth seeds

Common names

Here’s a table for the common names of amaranth seeds in different languages. Most of the people from India called them rajgiri seeds.

Amaranth Millet Benefits

1. It is very good for celiac disease patients. Because gluten-free.
2. Chelestrol levels will reduce. The magnesium will reduce blood pressure.
3. The folate, copper, and iron strengthen the immunity of our body.
4. Iron will produce the red blood cells, which will carry oxygen to all our bodies.
5. It has anticancer properties. Since it has various antioxidants. The research has shown that they will reduce various types of cancer.
6. High fiber improves gut health.
7. It prevents osteoporosis and builds strong bones.
8. It has lysine, which is very good for skin and health.
9. The minerals are very good for postmonopausal women.

Side effects

High intake will cause bloating, gas, or stomach discomfort due to high fiber content.

Recipes: How to Cook Amarnth

Rajgira flour:

Rajgira flour, also known as amaranth flour, is made from ground amaranth seeds and is commonly used in gluten-free cooking. It’s rich in protein, fiber, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium.

The below are the amarnath millet recipes we can do.

Amaranth Upma Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup amaranth seeds
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
• ½ teaspoon mustard seeds
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• 1 green chili (chopped)
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 1 small carrot (chopped)
• ½ teaspoon ginger (grated)
• 5-6 curry leaves
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon chopped coriander leaves

Instructions:

1. Rinse the amaranth seeds and drain.
2. Take a pan, put 2 cups of water, and boil.
3. Add the amaranth seeds and cook on low heat for 15-20 minutes.
4. Take another pan and put ghee.
5. Add mustard seeds.
6. Let them splutter.
7. Add cumin seeds, green chili, curry leaves, and grated ginger.
8. Add chopped onions and chopped carrots.
9. Cook until they soften.
10. Then add cooked amarnath seeds.
11. Add enough salt and cook for 2 minutes on low flame.
12. serve warm.

This amaranth upma is light, nutritious, and gluten-free, making it a great breakfast or healthy meal option!

Amaranth Laddu (Rajgira Laddu) Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup popped amaranth seeds
• ½ cup grated jaggery
• 1 tablespoon ghee
• ½ teaspoon cardamom powder
• 2 tablespoons chopped nuts, almonds, and cashews

Instructions:

1. Take a thick-bottomed pan and put it on medium heat.
2. Add amaranth seeds at a time and cover with a lid.
3. Within seconds, they will start popping like popcorn.
4. Take another pan and prepare the jaggery syrup.
5. Mix the ingredients—popped amaranth seeds, chopped nuts, and cardamom powder—to the jaggery syrup.
6. Mix well.
7. Grease your hands with ghee. Shape the mixture into round laddus.
8. Let them cool completely before storing.
9. The laddus are perfect healthy snacks.

FAQ: Amaranth Millets

1. What is Amaranth Millet?

Amaranth millet is a highly nutritious grain. It is gluten-free and rich in protein, fiber, and minerals.

2. Is Amaranth Millet good for weight loss?

Yes. Amaranth millet is high in fiber and protein, decreasing unnecessary cravings and helping in weight management.

3. How can I include amaranth millet in my diet?

You can use amaranth millet in making porridge, rotis, soups, salads, laddoos, or even popcorn for a healthy snack.

4. Is Amaranth Millet safe for diabetics?

Yes. Amaranth millet has a low glycemic index. It helps regulate blood sugar levels. It is a suitable option for diabetics.

5. Is amaranth grain the same as quinoa?

No, amaranth and quinoa are different grains. But both are gluten-free and highly nutritious.