Amaranth polenta

Amaranth polenta is a creamy, porridge-like dish made by cooking amaranth seeds (or flour) in water or broth, often with a pinch of salt. It is a gluten-free, ancient grain alternative to traditional corn polenta, with roots in Mesoamerican cuisine but now enjoyed globally as a nutritious breakfast or savory side.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is high in complex carbohydrates and a good source of plant-based protein, offering a balanced energy boost. A typical serving provides around 200-250 calories, along with notable amounts of iron, magnesium, and fiber.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	220 kcal
Protein	9 g
Carbs	40 g
Fat	3.5 g
Fiber	5 g
Sugar	0.5 g
Sodium	300 mg
Iron	5 mg
Magnesium	160 mg
Phosphorus	350 mg
Manganese	2.5 mg
Potassium	300 mg
Copper	0.4 mg
Zinc	2 mg
Vitamin B6	0.3 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) cooked · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Amaranth was a staple food of the Aztec civilization, valued for its nutritional density and cultural significance in rituals. Nutritionally, it's unique for being a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, which is rare for a grain.