Pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus)

Family: Amaranthaceae | Edibility: Choice Edible (5/5)

If you want to grow amaranth as a grain Amaranthus retroflexus is a good option. Seeds are eaten raw or cooked. They can be ground into a powder and used as a cereal substitute, and also can be sprouted and added to salads. Young leaves have a mild flavour and can be eaten raw or cooked as a spinach. It is eaten in Mexican markets as Quelite quintonil.

Edible Parts & Harvest Seasons

Edible Parts: Nuts/Seeds, Leaves

Harvest Seasons: Early Summer, Fall, Late Summer, Spring

Flavor & Culinary Uses

mild flavour, it is often mixed with stronger flavoured leaves. — Young leaves - raw or cooked as a spinach.; A mild flavour, it is often mixed with stronger flavoured leaves.; Very rich in iron, it is also a good source of vitamins A and C.; Seed - raw or cooked.

Habitat & North American Range

A casual of cultivated land and waste places in Britain. (Zone 5)