Amaranth is a gluten-free pseudo cereal, an ancient grain from South America. Amaranth is not technically a cereal grain like wheat or oats, but is naturally high in fibre and protein with healthy levels of iron, calcium manganese, magnesium, phosphorus and health promoting antioxidants. The health benefits attributed to Amaranth include reducing cholesterol levels, stimulating the immune system, decreasing blood glucose levels and improving conditions of anaemia and hypertension. It has a nutty flavour and its yield is similar to that of rice or maize. Amaranth is simple to prepare, simply combine with water in a 1:3 ratio and heat it until it reaches a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20 minutes until all the water is absorbed. Amaranth can be used in many different dishes. Add it to smoothies to boost the fibre and protein content, use it as a substitute in place of pasta, rice or couscous, mix it into soups or stews to add thickness or enjoy it as a breakfast cereal by stirring in fruit, nuts or cinnamon. TIP: Before cooking amaranth, you can sprout it by soaking it in water and then allowing the grains to germinate for one to three days.