Meet Amaranth, the Superfood You're About to Be Obsessed with

Like quinoa, amaranth grain is a dried seed. The Aztecs first cultivated the pink flowering plant nearly 8,000 years ago, and it now grows around the world in countries like China, Peru, Nigeria and Mexico. Naturally gluten-free, amaranth makes a particularly good breakfast grain as it takes on a porridge-like consistency when boiled.

When we say super grain, we seriously meansupergrain. The list of good-for-you attributesgoes on and on, but to name a few: It’s a source of calcium, magnesium and iron; studies have shown it can lower cholesterol; and it’s a complete protein, containing all the essential amino acids. What's more, it packsnine grams of protein per one-cup serving, compared with quinoa's eight grams.

Amaranth is an excellent option for your first meal of the day, but there’s a whole host of creative ways you can cook with the grain. You can use it in any recipe that calls forquinoa—you can even use the grain in place of risotto. So versatile.

You canbuy amaranth online, or in the bulk section of health-food stores and grocery stores like Whole Foods. Huzzah, we know what we’re making for dinner tonight.