Sunday, July 20, 2008

Amaranth



This is the first post for my fledgling blog. Please be kind.

Tonight I made some amaranth, which I got from the health-food store. I wanted to try it since I'd seen it many times over the years; but had never had the opportunity to sample it. I took a chance and I think tonight's experiment was successful.

3 c cool water
1 c amaranth
1 tsp olive oil
3/4 tsp salt
1/4 tsp garlic powder
1/4 tsp black pepper

I followed package directions for the amaranth: 1 cup amaranth to three cups water, then season and simmer. It was very easy to prepare, as you can see; however while the package suggested 25 minutes would absorb the water, I found it took me much closer to 40. Just keep an eye on it, and when most of the water is absorbed and it's bubbling up porridge-like, remove the pot from heat and let it rest for five minutes. Seasoning could definitely be changed to taste.

1 can chick peas, 15.5 oz.
1/4 bag mixed frozen vegetables
3 TB sofrito
1 tsp olive oil
1/2 tsp garlic powder (Optional. there is already some garlic in the sofrito.)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp salt

I combined all ingredients in a saucepan and cooked on low heat till the frozen veggies were getting hot. I stirred frequently. Unfortunately I did not time it; but I think it took no more than 5-7 minutes on medium-high heat.

After both parts were ready, I simply spooned some of the amaranth into a bowl, then topped it with some of the chick pea mixture. This was very filling and healthy - in fact one could use even less of the salt and olive oil if desired. This recipe made three hearty servings, and could make 4-5 smaller servings easily.