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Craving an extraordinary and nourishing addition to your everyday culinary escapades? Look no further than the remarkable Amaranth! Also known as rajgira or ramdana, it falls into the captivating realm of pseudo-cereals and is gluten-free too.
Though mistakenly deemed a grain by some, the more accurate portrayal is that of a seed. Since ancient times, amaranth has influenced various culinary cultures all across the world. In India, those observing a Navratri vrat (fast) often eat rajgira in some form. But there are many reasons why it should be part of your meals throughout the year.
Here are some benefits that you must know about amaranth:
Rich In Protein
In a 100 g serving of amaranth, you'll find an impressive 13.27 g of protein. Thanks to its remarkable composition of essential amino acids, this protein source boasts exceptional quality, exhibiting a bioavailability of 87-89%. As a result, amaranth stands tall as one of the most remarkable plant-based protein options available.
Promotes Gut Health
Amaranth possesses remarkable prebiotic properties that positively influence gut health. It stimulates the production of beneficial "short-chain fatty acids" that contribute to a flourishing gut environment. Notably, experts highlight that amaranth requires no soaking due to its minimal saponin content. With its high fibre content, this remarkable ingredient also aids in alleviating constipation, offering relief, and promoting digestive regularity.
May Aid In Weight Loss
With its abundant protein and fibre content, amaranth proves to be a valuable ally for individuals striving to shed unwanted weight. These gluten-free seeds are reputed to effectively suppress appetite, providing a prolonged feeling of fullness. By incorporating amaranth into your diet, you can take significant strides towards achieving your weight loss goals.
Boost Heart Health
Amaranth has been discovered to possess cholesterol-lowering properties attributed to the presence of phytosterols, which can boost good heart health.
Promotes Bone Health
Enhancing bone density is among the benefits of incorporating amaranth into your diet, thanks to its abundance of iron, calcium, phosphorus, and fibre.
Boosts Immunity
The immunity-boosting potential of amaranth seeds lies in their vitamin C content and antioxidants, which work together to safeguard your body against free radicals, inflammation, and oxidative damage.
Amaranth seeds offer versatility in the kitchen, as they can be cooked to create an array of delightful dishes. Alternatively, you can dry roast and blend them to produce amaranth flour, commonly known as rajgira ka atta. This protein-rich and gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute for other types of flour, allowing you to explore various culinary possibilities. Here are a few amaranth delicacies to get started with:
1. Amaranth Tikki
Indulge in the delightful flavours of this delectable tikki that skillfully combines amaranth with onions, capsicum, garlic, and an array of aromatic spices. This extraordinary snack is bound to captivate your taste buds, making it a truly remarkable addition to your teatime spread.
2. Amaranth Ladoo
Crafting this uncomplicated and nutritious sweet delight demands a mere trio of ingredients: popped amaranth seeds, slivered almonds, and jaggery. In under 20 minutes, you can prepare this delightful treat that effortlessly combines these elements into a harmonious blend of flavours.
3. Amaranth Kadhi
Here's a light and delectable kadhi, a splendid means of integrating the superfood that is amaranth into your lunch or dinner. This dish offers a burst of flavours and can be savoured alongside rice, puris, or parathas, elevating your mealtime experience to new heights.
4. Amaranth Granola
For fitness enthusiasts who abide by a wholesome diet, this breakfast recipe is an absolute gem, and the cherry on top is its remarkable simplicity. Prepare a delightful amaranth granola with lemon yoghurt, berries, and marigold by gathering amaranth, oats, almonds, honey, brown sugar, lemon, olive oil, blueberries, and plain yoghurt.
5. Amaranth Salad
Prepare to have your taste buds tantalised by this irresistible amalgamation of greens and walnuts, incorporating amaranth, arugula, rocket leaves, tamarind, Dijon mustard, and a host of other delectable ingredients. These mouth-watering fusions promise to leave you salivating for more.
