These 2 Gluten-Free Grains Will Conquer 2017

Karissa Bowers |

Sep 10, 2024

Goodbye quinoa, hello sorghum and millet? Two newcomers to the gluten-free scene, these ancient grains are poised to replace quinoa as the choice revived ancient gluten-free grains of 2017.

What Is Sorghum?

Sorghum is a gluten-free member of the grass family. It is a little bigger than quinoa in size and it can be cooked or popped. When boiled, it softens up just like rice or quinoa and becomes fork tender. When popped, it becomes fluffy like a miniature version of popcorn.

Sorghum’s flavor is earthy and mild. It tastes delicious in grain bowls and on salads. When popped, it tastes like a nuttier version of popcorn.

Sorghum Health Benefits

Sorghum is a great source of fiber, protein, iron, and calcium. Its fiber content makes it an excellent choice for improving digestion and maintaining blood sugar levels. Vegans and vegetarians will appreciate it even more for its protein levels.

Sorghum Recipes

Image by Erin Alderson

Roasted Garlic Tomato Soup
This tomato soup recipe cleverly uses popped sorghum instead of croutons. The crunchy bite adds a fun flavor and texture to this vegan soup.

Image by Kathryne Taylor

Roasted Cherry Tomato, Arugula, and Sorghum Salad
This light and healthy salad is perfect for spring and summer picnics. The roasted cherry tomatoes add a burst of color and flavor that complements the sorghum and arugula.

Image by Sarah Aldrich

Vegan Buddha Bowl with Curry Chickpeas
This nourishing vegan Buddha bowl is the perfect way to enjoy sorghum as an entrée. The curry chickpeas add a spiced flavor that’s simply irresistible.

What Is Millet?

Millet, like quinoa, is actually a seed, not a grain, but it is grain-like in texture and taste. It may be associated with bird feed but that doesn’t mean it’s not safe or tasty enough for human consumption. In fact, it’s quite versatile and can be cooked into a fluffy or creamy consistency.

Millet has a mild flavor somewhat comparable to that of corn. When boiled with water, it tastes similar to polenta and has a porridge-like texture. It also tastes great in Mediterranean dishes like tabbouleh.

Millet Health Benefits

Millet is a great source of fiber, protein, iron, copper, phosphorus, manganese, and magnesium. Its magnesium content makes it a heart-healthy choice since the mineral has been suggested to lower high blood pressure and reduce heart attack risk. Millet is also rich in B vitamins which help keep the body energized and healthy.

Millet Recipes

Image by Ashley Melillo

Millet Tabbouleh
This healthy Meditteranean-style vegan recipe uses millet instead of bulgur. It’s the perfect dish to make for a refreshing lunch or as an entree when served with hummus and pita bread.

Image by Oliver Parini

Millet and Lacinato Kale Salad Recipe with Dried Sour Cherries, Pistachios, and Chèvre
The flavors of pistachios, cranberries, and millet all blend together to create a gourmet salad in this recipe. Skip the cheese to make it vegan or you could try subbing with a dairy-free cheese by Kite Hill.

Image by Felicia Lim

Creamy Millet Breakfast Porridge
Swap your morning bowl of oats with this creamy bowl of millet porridge. Topped with fresh strawberries and sliced almonds, the sweet and nutty flavors will make your morning brighter.