8 Uncommon Superfoods You Must Try

Avocados, broccoli, sweet potatoes, and berries are examples of “superfoods” that are easy to prepare and consume. They’re frequently the most popular superfoods among health-conscious home chefs. There are, however, many rare foods with super-healthy characteristics that you may not know. Here are some of the uncommon superfoods you must try.

Goji berries

Though these berries are traditionally associated with Asian cuisine, they are gaining popularity in the newly health-conscious American diet. Goji berries have an unequaled nutritional profile, with vitamin A, fiber, iron, and amino acids not seen in other fruits.

Chia seeds

Chia seeds are a superfood with a big punch, high in fiber, manganese, calcium. You can use chia seeds in many dishes. For example, you can add it to soups, salad dressings, and smoothies. You can try chia seed pudding: combine a spoonful of chia seeds with a container of Greek yogurt, a splash of your favorite milk, and chill overnight. The chia seeds in your yogurt will have expanded in the morning, giving it a distinctive texture that’s perfect for breakfast or an afternoon snack.

Amaranth

This nutrient-dense seed, like quinoa, is native to the Americas and was a mainstay of the Incan diet. The nutty flavor of the grain-like seeds is modest. It has more fiber and protein than wheat, and brown rice is abundant in vitamins. It can reduce blood pressure and bad LDL cholesterol.

Jicama

Jicama is a Central American root vegetable that resembles a potato or turnip but is somewhat sweet and juicy. A single cup has just 49 calories and 6 grams of fiber. You can eat it raw or boil it until it’s soft, like a potato.

Maca powder

Maca has been all the rage lately, but I’ll admit it took me a few weeks to find out what it was. Maca is a root that looks like a radish. Maca powder is high in vitamins and beneficial for mood and energy, popular in smoothies and shakes due to its ease of mixing.

Artichokes

Artichokes are a great addition to your diet, even if they aren’t easy to prepare. Fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins C and K abound in these vegetables. Dips with artichokes and spinach are a terrific way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while also satisfying salty appetites with chips on the side.

Kamut

Pharaohs were formerly known to consume this relative of durum wheat. It’s now widely accepted as a healthy alternative to brown rice. Most cereals lack vitamin E and heart-healthy fatty acids, but Kamut does. It’s also higher in protein than wheat, with up to 40% more. Boil it for up to an hour in the water or until the grains are soft. Drain and combine with sauteed veggies, a splash of soy sauce, and a squeeze of lemon in a large mixing bowl.

Lentils

Lentils offer a number of health advantages that make them a great addition to any meal, including the ability to decrease cholesterol, enhance heart health, and improve digestion. They’re also high in protein, making them ideal for vegans. Lentils are also a versatile cooking ingredient.