Amaranth
Latin Name: Amaranthus spp.
Other Names: Amaranto, Kiwacha
There are hundreds of varieties of amaranth of all different colors that grow throughout the Americas. Tender leaves can be eaten as spinach-like greens, and seeds are harvested and used as a great. Amaranth is considered to be a versatile pseudo-cereal similar to quinoa and used in cooking similarly to quinoa and rice in both sweet and savory dishes.
Amaranth has a deep history throughout South and Central America, a history that was nearly lost during the early centuries of colonization. Amaranth has long been a staple crop for millions of people and has gained an international following for its health benefits.