I love Bob's Red Mill brand, their fiber-packed pancakes put buttermilks to shame. Don't miss Maggie's whole grain ideas, too, such as protein-star amaranth, bulgar and versatile barley.

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If you're a whole grain purist, you may not think amaranth belongs in the group. While it's not in the same botanical family as most whole grains, it offers the nutritional perks of whole grains. In fact, amaranth does whole grains one better; it has 16 percent more protein than most whole grains and -- bonus -- it's a complete protein. Which makes amaranth a great addition to any diet, but especially great for vegetarians.

Amaranth is gluten free, so it has to be mixed with wheat flour in order to make leavened breads. You can make some great gluten-free baked goods, though. Amaranth Soda Bread is definitely one to try. Amaranth also makes a delicious side dish.

Want to learn more about different whole grains? Check out my posts on quinoa, bulgar and barley.

Just as I'm starting to understand all the buzz about whole grains, I'm faced with a new lesson, and it's all about "old-world" grains. Here's what I'm learning.

Once only found in health food stores, these grains -- amaranth, spelt, and quinoa are a few -- are popping up on the shelves of local grocery stores. The good news, besides greater availability, is that these tasty treats may be even higher in disease-fighting nutrients than your average whole wheat, rice, and oats.

Want to give these great grains a try? Here are some tips:

• Pick bread with more than seven grains -- these are more likely to include some "old-world" alternatives, like millet and amaranth.
• Visit the rice and pasta aisle and give these a try: Boxed quinoa and Kamut pasta. Quinoa has a nutty taste, the pasta has a wheat flavor, and both cook in 20 minutes or less and can be swapped for rice or noodles in pilafs and soups.
• Try small substitutions by using these grains in foods like muffins, pancakes, even salads.

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Are you a whole-grain eater? Many of us choose breakfast time to eat those whole grains in the form of a whole-wheat bagel or unsweetened breakfast cereal. Ever check to see if amaranth is in that whole grain mix, though?

Grain amaranth, like many whole grains, has a high protein count and is a great addition to that whole grain diet when you can find it. Dr. Dorothy Nakimbugwe, a Food Scientist, says that "Grain amaranth has a higher protein quality and quantity than most cereals and grains."

Next time you are looking for that healthy breakfast cereal, check to see if amaranth is included, and choose the one that has it over one that doesn't. Take the taste test and see what you think!

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