Monday, January 26, 2015

Amazing Amaranth Fritter

Since I needed to start a gluten free diet I have been experimenting with many different grains. I have been looking to get the needed nutrients and fiber that I am missing in fortified whole wheat/whole grain breads. Bob's Red Mill is one place where I have turned to find nutritious grains to expand my meal options.

On Bob's Red Mill's Website I learned:
Amaranth is a gluten-free food and a source of complete protein—it contains all the essential amino acids, including lysine, which is lacking in most grains. High in fiber and a good source of magnesium and iron, Amaranth is a spectacular addition to your diet. This little powerhouse is perfect for gluten free and vegan diets.


With this knowledge...I wanted to find a way...multiple ways to use this grain!

I want to share with you a modification I made to the Amaranth Fritter recipe on the Bob's Red Mill package. I'll share with you other variations as well:

Ingredients:
1 shallot
3 cloves of garlic
3 cups of vegetable broth
2 cups AMARANTH
2 Eggs
1/2 cup rice flour and 1/2 cup oat flour OR 1 cup All Purpose Gluten Free Flour or 1 cup flour if not gluten free (more flour is a denser "patty", less flour is a thinner and lighter "patty")
1/4 cup diced basil or rosemary or chives or cilantro

Directions:
Dice shallot and garlic
Add to a pot with 2 tbsp olive oil
Saute' till shallot is caramelized
Add Amaranth and stir for a minute
Add broth
Bring to a boil...then reduce to a simmer and cover
Check on pot...stir from time to time
When water is absorbed, stop cooking and let it cool.

Once cool...
Add egg, herb of choice, and flour to pot
Stir to combine
Preheat a pan with 2 TBSP olive oil...then reduce to medium
Use a large serving spoon to transfer AMARANTH mixture to the pan
Flip after the edges look tan (3-5 minutes each side)
Remove from pan (I place on a plate with a paper towel to remove excess oil)
Continue cooking until all batter is used.



Serving Suggestions ... can be for BREAKFAST - LUNCH - or DINNER

BREAKFAST:
Top with peanut butter (or PB and Jelly),
Serve with eggs, sausage, or bacon
Top with fruit and honey (or syrup)
LUNCH/DINNER:
As a side dish...perhaps have as dipping sauces pesto, pasta sauce, or a sriracha/yogurt sauce
Use as your protein...place on a bed of spinach with a balsamic vinegar and oil dressing and sliced peppers (multi-colored peppers is a pretty ... and healthy ... presentation)