Amaranth for Babies: When and How to Introduce It
Amaranth is a tiny gluten-free grain that cooks into a soft porridge from around 6 months, with good iron and protein for a grain.
- When to introduce
- Around 6 months
- Common allergen?
- No (gluten-free)
- Texture
- Cooked soft as a porridge
- Key nutrients
- Iron, protein, fiber, magnesium
When can babies eat amaranth?
Amaranth is a tiny, ancient, gluten-free grain that cooks down into a soft, slightly sticky porridge, which makes it a friendly early food from around 6 months. It stands out for offering good iron and protein for a grain, both of which matter as your baby's iron stores from birth begin to run low. Cook it soft, and pair it with a vitamin C food to help the iron absorb.
How to prepare amaranth for baby-led weaning (BLW) and purées, by age
Is amaranth safe? Choking & prep
Amaranth is gluten-free, so it is not a wheat allergen, though as with any new food, introduce it on its own and watch how your baby responds. Cook it in plenty of liquid until it is soft and porridge-like so it is easy to swallow. Because amaranth is a good grain source of iron, pair it with a vitamin C food, like a little mashed berry or citrus, to help your baby absorb that iron. There is no need to add salt to your baby's portion, and skip honey until after 12 months.
Trying amaranth today? Log the first taste and it lands on your baby's tried-it list, dated and ready for the pediatrician.
Log amaranth today →Nutrition
Amaranth offers iron and protein that are on the higher end for a grain, along with fiber and magnesium. The iron is especially valuable in the second half of the first year, and it absorbs better when you serve amaranth alongside a vitamin C food.
Goes well with
Strawberry · Sweet potato · Pear
Storage & freezing
Refrigerate cooked amaranth in a sealed container for up to 3 days, or freeze in portions; loosen with a little liquid when reheating.
More grains to explore
Related reading
Frequently asked questions
When can babies eat amaranth?
Around 6 months, cooked soft into a porridge. It is a gentle, gluten-free grain to start with.
Is amaranth gluten-free?
Yes, amaranth is naturally gluten-free, so it is not a wheat allergen. Introduce it like any new food and watch your baby the first time or two.
Does amaranth have iron?
Yes, amaranth offers good iron for a grain. Pair it with a vitamin C food to help your baby absorb that iron.
How do I cook amaranth for a baby?
Simmer it in plenty of water or milk until soft and porridge-like, then serve smooth or mixed with mashed fruit or vegetables.
Sources
- American Academy of Pediatrics (HealthyChildren.org): Starting Solid Foods
- CDC: Foods and Drinks to Encourage and Limit
Track it in Yummy Yucky
Log first tries, get nudged through the 3-day allergen watch, and keep every bite in one place you can share with your pediatrician.
Start tracking for freeHow we write these: from widely published pediatric guidance (AAP, NIAID 2017 guidelines, the LEAP study), with sources cited on every page. Pending review by a pediatric professional.
This is general information, not medical advice, and has not been individually reviewed for your baby. Always talk to your pediatrician about your baby's diet, introducing allergens, and any reaction. In an emergency, contact emergency services.
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