In my Monsters & Beasts series (you can find the Table of Contents for Book 1 here), one of Lola-Grace’s traveling companions is a half-siofra (sun elf), half-ciaran (moon elf) scout named Blaize. Elves have a profound sweet tooth, and Blaize is no exception. She likes honey with most things, or even by itself. (She’ll eat it right out of the jar in a pinch.)
She especially likes honey in amaranth porridge.
Amaranth is an ancient grain that has more fiber and protein than any other grain. It makes lovely decorative grass with gorgeous red or purple flowers. I prefer its cooked consistency over oatmeal. The look and texture reminds me a bit of Coco Wheats. It has a pleasant, earthy smell, and the seeds swell with water to give it a pleasant crunch/pop when it’s cooked.
Amaranth grows wild, but the elves have also cultivated it. Because of their innate nature magic, elves are fond of growing things, and amaranth is one of their favorites, being both beautiful and practical. The grasses and flowers decorate walkways and yards in elven cities.
Amaranth porridge is really easy to make, even if you’re out in the wilderness and surrounded by monsters. It’s not as filling as lembka bread, but it’s easier to make without elf magic.
The elves like their porridge sweet, but amaranth works well with savory flavors too.
Blaize’s Amaranth Porridge Recipe
Ingredients
1 cup (250 grams) of amaranth seeds
3 cups (750 milliliters) of water
Topping Suggestions
Honey or sugar
Milk, half and half, or milk substitute
Walnuts, pecans, or other unsalted nuts
Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apples, peaches, or other fruit
Chocolate chips
Peanut butter
Cinnamon
Maple syrup
Cocoa powder
Directions
Put amaranth and water in a large pot and bring to a boil.
Lower heat to a simmer and cook until all of the water is absorbed, about 20-30 minutes. When you run the spatula over the bottom of the pan, it should take a moment to fill in behind the spatula.
Serve with your choice of toppings.
Makes 4 servings.
What’s the best way to serve Blaize’s Amaranth Porridge?
Blaize’s favorite combination: Honey, milk, and walnuts
My favorite combinations:
Cocoa powder, sugar, and butter (like Coco Wheats!)
Honey, milk, toasted pecans, and blueberries
Have you tried this recipe? What is your favorite combination of toppings?
Effy J. Roan is a writer of dark and epic fantasy. She loves dragons, dogs, and endless worldbuilding. She likes to create monsters and research cultures and food for her fiction. You can find her on Facebook and Instagram.
Find her serial fiction on World of Dadreon.
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