Amaranth Porridge

I'm always looking for new ways to add nutrition & variety to my diet.  Amaranth is considered an ancient grain (although technically it's a seed), cultivated for over 8000 years in Central & South America. Amaranth seeds come from a leafy plant (which is also edible), & are the size of poppy seeds. Amaranth is one of the most nutritious 'grains', containing more fiber & protein than most other grains, & is also high in calcium, magnesium & iron.  One cup of cooked amaranth has 5 grams of dietary fiber & 9 grams of protein. Amaranth has 30% more protein than oats & is gluten free.  Pre-Columbian Aztecs regarded amaranth as having supernatural powers & used it in their religious ceremonies.

Ingredients:

1/2 cup amaranth seeds

1 Tbsp chia seeds

fresh or dried fruit of your choice (I used raisins & goji berries)

2 cups of water

pumpkin, sunflower & ground flax seeds, & shredded coconut

pure organic maple syrup or raw honey, cinnamon & hemp, almond or light coconut milk

Directions:

Combine amaranth & chia seeds, dried fruit & water in saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat than lower to a simmer & cook, stirring until creamy, about 20-25 min. Be sure to stir constantly the last 5 min. of cooking (porridge will splutter). If porridge seems thick add more water. Serve by sprinkling with seeds, coconut & cinnamon. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey & milk of choice.