Amaranth is also considered a superfood due to the range of nutrients it provides. This salad is ideal for navratras as it is wholesome as well as light on the digestive system thereby aiding in the process of detoxification.
Amaranth/Rajgiri would remind you of quinoa, similar in appearance and also in the qualities they possess. Both are gluten free, rich in protein, fiber and iron.
Ingredients:
- ½ cup uncooked, whole grain amaranth
- 1½ cup water
- 1 Cucumber – diced into pieces
- 10-12 Roasted makhana ( coarsely crushed )
- 1 Tomato – diced
- Fresh coriander – chopped
- 1 Lemon – juiced
- Sendha Namak to taste
- Any other vegetable that you consume during the fasts.
Method:
- Bring 1 1/2 cups cold water and amaranth to a boil in a medium saucepan; reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20 minutes or until water is almost absorbed (it will have the appearance of mush).
- While amaranth cooks, combine the cucumber and the other ingredients in a large bowl.
- Place amaranth in a sieve, and rinse under cold running water until room temperature; drain well, pressing with the back of a spoon.
- Add to cucumber mixture along with the roasted makhana; toss to blend.
- Garnish with freshly chopped coriander and lemon juice. Add salt; toss gently.
DCN TIP
- Ensure that the amaranth is put in a fine sieve otherwise the grains will slip through.
- You may add nuts like soaked almonds and seeds such as pumpkin, sunflower, flax etc. to it.
- Other than Navratri, you can add any vegetables and fruits to this salad. It is cheaper, native alternate to quinoa salad.
