Grain

Amaranthus cruentus

A tier

Amaranthus cruentus is a major Mesoamerican grain amaranth with upright colourful inflorescences and prolific small seeds used for flour, porridge, and Mexican alegría-style puffed confections. Seed colour ranges cream to darker; flavour is toasty-earthy with a light pepper tickle. Cruentus underpins much commercial grain amaranth outside pure Andean caudatus lines. Pop seeds in a hot dry pan like miniature popcorn for sweets and toppings. Leaves of related plantings may be eaten as greens but this entry tracks grain use.