Not only is it used in cereals and flour, but it's also used in livestock feed, to produce ethanol and to make syrup, and the stalks can be used to make brooms. For the Ragusan family, see, "World Checklist of Selected Plant Families: Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew", "Sorghum laxiflorum and S. macrospermum, the Australian native species most closely related to the cultivated S. bicolor based on ITS1 and ndhF sequence analysis of 28 Sorghum species", "Flora of China Vol. Along with essential nutrients, super-foods feed our body the necessary nutrients that our Standard American Diet is lacking. Finally, this grain is a great source of protein. China purchased around $1 billion worth of American sorghum per year until April 2018 when China imposed retaliatory duties on American sorghum as part of the trade war between the two countries. Its grain can be made into... | Meaning, pronunciation, translations and examples Amaranth is an ancient grain that is loaded with healthy nutrients. The United States is the world's largest producer of grain sorghum, having produced 480 million bushels in 2016. Sorghum is an extremely versatile grain that you can serve like rice or quinoa. That’s different than plain old sugar cane, which yields molasses, or, for that matter, the trees that yield maple syrup. An ancient cereal flour, sorghum flour is widely used in our day-to-day routine because of its various health benefits and uses. [6] Sorghum is in the subfamily Panicoideae and the tribe Andropogoneae (the tribe of big bluestem and sugarcane). Because of it’s gluten free properties, sorghum is a welcome whole grain alternative for those who … Sorghum is a gluten-free grain with a lot of uses. The syrup is made from the juice of sorghum, while molasses comes from sugarcane. Sorghum is naturally gluten-free, making it a good option if you’re avoiding gluten. It will actually pop into a soft, white snack -- although it is slightly smaller than what you get with popped corn. One species is grown for grain, while … Furthermore, half a cup (96 grams) of sorghum provides approximately 20% of the recommended daily fiber intake. Sorghum is one of the top cereal crops in the world, along with wheat, oats, corn, rice, and barley. S. bicolor is an important food crop in Africa, Central America, and South Asia, and is the fifth-most important cereal crop grown in the world. Background and History. They are then dried and stored whole. Plus, sorghum syrup is lower in fructose levels than other sweeteners and is high in potassium. The grains are red and hard when ripe and ready for harvest. Gluten is a group of proteins found in certain grains that gives food products a stretchy quality and structure. Blackstrap molasses contains vitamins and minerals, like iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6, and selenium. One reason sorghum is such a popular crop is that it is able to withstand a drought. Like most gluten-free flours it cannot be used solely as a wheat flour substitute but it is commonly used in several branded gluten-free flour blends such as Bob’s Red Mill Gluten Free 1-To-1 Baking Flour due to non-assertive flavour and soft texture. Sorghum syrup is lower in total sugar but higher in fructose, making it sweeter than molasses (10). At one time, sorghum was an important crop and served as a sugar substitute for many people. Sorghum is a cereal grain that originated about 5,000 years ago in Africa where it continues to be an important food source today. Sorghum, the ancient grain that's so popular in the South, acts the most like corn kernels when heated. It’s small, round, and usually white or yellow — though some varieties are red, brown, black, or … Sorghum is an underrated, nutrient-rich cereal grain. 2. If you’re looking for a nutritious grain to add to your next meal, give sorghum a try. Furthermore, you can enjoy this whole grain as a hearty side dish. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is a less well-known grain in the world food market. This tall, broad-leaf plant resembles corn in the field, but the grain crop is best known for its end product: sweet sorghum syrup. 14 Healthy Whole-Grain Foods (Including Gluten-Free Options), 8 Gluten-Free Grains That Are Super Healthy, 5 Benefits of Farro, A Healthy and Nutritious Ancient Grain, Amaranth: An Ancient Grain With Impressive Health Benefits. It’s also widely used as a natural and cost-effective fuel source. A popular baking alternative and nutritious whole grain, sorghum helps improve heart health, reduces inflammation, and promotes digestion. [12][13], Global demand for sorghum increased dramatically between 2013 and 2015 when China began purchasing US sorghum crops to use as livestock feed as a substitute for domestically grown corn. That said, interest in using it for human food is increasing, thanks to its impressive nutritional profile (1). In its whole form, this grain can be cooked like quinoa or rice, milled into a flour, or popped like popcorn. Here is a detailed look at amaranth and its health benefits. * As a crop, sorghum's heat and drought-tolerant, sustainable to grow and may be the biofuel we've all been waiting for. Whole grains have many legitimate health benefits. The Sorghum Belt runs from South Dakota to Southern Texas. In traditional form, it is a towering plant over 6 feet (2 meters) tall, although many varieties designed for cultivation are dwarf breeds, specially designed fo… A natural sweetener created from juice squeezed from the stalks of a special variety of sweet sorghum. There are many species of sorghum, the most popular being Sorghum bicolor, which is native to Africa. Sorghum boasts an impressive nutrient profile. [10][11], In the early stages of the plants' growth, some species of sorghum can contain levels of hydrogen cyanide, hordenine, and nitrates which are lethal to grazing animals. Learn more. The United States is the world’s largest producer of sorghum. A cereal, Sorghum bicolor (syn. All rights reserved. One species, Sorghum bicolor, was originally domesticated in Africa and has since spread throughout the globe. Bone Health. Ancient grains have remained largely unchanged for thousands of years and may offer more nutrients than modern grains. For the principal modern crop species, see, "Sorgo" redirects here. Sorghum is among the most efficient crops in conversion of solar energy and use of water and is known as a high-energy, drought tolerant crop that is environmentally friendly. Sorghum is versatile and easy to add to a wealth of recipes. Seventeen of the 25 species are native to Australia,[2][3] with the range of some extending to Africa, Asia, Mesoamerica, and certain islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Sorghum is a genus of flowering plants in the grass family Poaceae, which includes about 25 species. This article reviews the nutritional content and many uses of sorghum. Here are 8 gluten-free grains you can eat instead. Sorghum is an ancient cereal grain belonging to the grass family Poaceae. Sorghum flour's a player in most gluten-free flour blends for gloriously gluten-free breads and pastries. Sorghum is a non-GMO, gluten free, ancient grain that is most commonly used as feed for livestock but is also a popular food grain for people residing in Asia and Africa. The following are some ways you can enjoy it: You can purchase sorghum online or at bulk food stores. Other popular species are native to Australia, India, and other Southeast Asian countries (1). It’s a significant source of many vitamins and minerals, fiber, and protein, all of which contribute to good health. The different varieties of sorghum come in many colors, including red, purple, and br… Sorghum is an important grain because it gives an alternative to wheat for those who need a gluten-free diet, it is usually eaten as a whole-grain which keeps the hull and its’ nutrients intact. Finally, it’s used as a natural fuel source. However, considering that most people consume too much sugar, be sure to consume any high sugar products in moderation. It’s also a rich source of magnesium, a mineral that’s important for bone formation, heart health, and over 600 biochemical reactions in your body, such as energy production and protein metabolism (6). Syrup made from the juice of this plant. One species, Sorghum bicolor,[7] native to Africa with many cultivated forms now,[8] is an important crop worldwide, used for food (as grain and in sorghum syrup or "sorghum molasses"), animal fodder, the production of alcoholic beverages, and biofuels. Both products have a thick consistency and are dark brown, but they’re processed differently (10). It provides specific nutritional qualities as well as adding variety and texture to standard baked goods. Where is sorghum grown? Sorghum, also called milo, is truly a versatile crop. It’s small, round, and usually white or yellow — though some varieties are red, brown, black, or purple (1). You can usually replace molasses with sorghum syrup at a 1:1 ratio. Sorghum syrup: “Sweet sorghum,” a species of sorghum with a higher sugar content in its stalks, is … Get inspired by sorghum and add a new twist to your favorite meals. These varieties form important components of forage in many tropical regions. Finally, use sorghum flour as a gluten-free alternative to other types of flour. It's sometimes called milo, and in India, it is known as jowar. Its whole grain is commonly used in baking, while its syrup is used as a sweetener. [4][5] One species is grown for grain, while many others are used as fodder plants, either cultivated in warm climates worldwide or naturalized in pasture lands. Weak bones can limit our lives to a great extent. While there are more than 30 different species of sorghum, only one is harvested for human consumption, while the others are primarily used as a fodder for animals. If you have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, it's important to avoid the protein gluten. Most varieties are drought- and heat-tolerant, and nitrogen-efficient,[9] and are especially important in arid regions, where the grain is one of the staples for poor and rural people. The plant likely originated in Africa, where it is a major food crop, and has numerous varieties, including grain sorghums, used for food; grass sorghums, grown for hay and fodder; and broomcorn , used in making brooms and brushes. For those looking for a gluten-free grain, sorghum is a super healthy option. It’s rich in nutrients and easy to add to your diet, but its merits don’t stop there. Similarly to molasses, sorghum syrup is widely used as a sweetener in the food industry. the syrup made from sorgo. Sorghum vulgare) the grains of which are used to make flour and as cattle feed. Today, the United States is the largest producer of sorghum where it's primarily used for animal feed. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. For a nutritious snack, try popping the whole grains on the stovetop to make popcorn. Sorghum is high in dietary fiber and has a neutral flavor making it ideal for use in numerous types of gluten free food products. The color and consistency of sorghum syrup are similar to those of molasses. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Sorghum is a genus of flowering plants in the grass family Poaceae, which includes about 25 species. Sorghum is an environmentally responsible crop. This article lists the top nine benefits of whole grains, as well as who might want to avoid them. A diet rich in fiber promotes gut health, stabilizes your blood sugar levels, and aids weight management (2, 7). What’s more, it’s easy to replace rice or quinoa with whole sorghum in most recipes. [14], This article is about the plant genus. 2. Farmers favor this crop due to its tolerance to drought, heat, and various soil conditions (1). It uses fewer natural resources in its production and is the model sustainable crop. In most recipes, it can replace grains at a 1:1 ratio. In addition, sorghum is high in antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins. A cultivated grass (Sorghum bicolor) native to sub-Saharan Africa, several varieties of which are widely grown for their grain, as forage, or as a source of syrup. When stressed by drought or heat, plants can also contain toxic levels of cyanide and nitrates at later stages in growth. First and foremost, in the United States, sorghum is used as livestock feed and turned into ethanol. Sorghum is the broad term for an entire genus of grasses that are native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Sweet sorghum (Sorghum vulgare) is grown for the manufacture of syrup. Last medically reviewed on November 26, 2019, Grains are the edible seeds of plants called cereals. It's a popular crop to grow within the drier regions of the States because it is drought resistant. Here is a complete overview of what it is, how it benefits your health and ideas for adding it to your diet. Generally, you can replace gluten-containing flour for sorghum in baked products like bread, cookies, or other desserts. Sorghum is a quality wholegrain, providing important nutrients including protein, dietary fibre and a range of minerals and vitamins. Sorghum is a cereal grain that grows tall like corn, and it is used for a lot more than just sweetening. If you find it too sweet, use slightly less or add more liquid. It often prevents you from enjoying … It was originally cultivated in Egypt in antiquity; the largest producers of sorghum in the modern era are still in Africa, although the crop has spread to southern Asia and the Americas as well. A variety of healthy, gluten-free alternatives to regular or wheat flour exist for those who avoid gluten. Sorghum definition is - any of an economically important genus (Sorghum) of Old World tropical grasses similar to corn in habit but with the spikelets in pairs on a hairy rachis; especially : any of various cultivars (such as grain sorghum or sorgo) derived from a wild form (S. bicolor synonym S. vulgare). Some of these species have grown as cereals for human consumption and some in pastures for animals. One species, Sorghum bicolor, was originally domesticated in Africa and has since spread throughout the globe. This article takes a close look at grains and their health effects, both the good stuff and the…, Replacing refined grains in favor of whole grains has been linked to various health benefits. Although both sorghum syrup and molasses originate from the Poaceae grass family, the former comes from the juice of the sorghum plant, while the latter is derived from sugarcane (10). Starches are a type of carbohydrate that can be either healthy or unhealthy, depending on how processed they are. Eating these super-foods may reduce the risk of chronic disease and lengthen your life. Queensland Government", "Sorghum, targeted by tariffs, is a U.S. crop China started buying only five years ago", FAO Report (1995) "Sorghum and millets in human nutrition", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Sorghum&oldid=994667665, Short description is different from Wikidata, Wikipedia articles incorporating a citation from the 1911 Encyclopaedia Britannica with Wikisource reference, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License, This page was last edited on 16 December 2020, at 22:24. Seventeen of the 25 species are native to Australia, with the range of some extending to Africa, Asia, Mesoamerica, and certain islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Sorghum contains selenium and niacin which are thought to help in the prevention of cancer. Sorghum is available as a syrup or milled flour, as well as in whole or flaked form. It is light or beige in colour with a mild sweet flavour. Once you feel comfortable with the idea … Here are 12 healthy ancient…. Here’s our process. 1936, Harry Nelson Vinall, Joseph Charlworth Stephens, John Holmes Martin, Identification, History, and Distribution of Common Sorghum Varieties, US Department of Agriculture, Technical Bulletin No. Sorghum is a cereal grain that’s widely produced around the world. By Amy GrantHave you ever heard of sorghum plants? It has been consumed in countries throughout the world for centuries. Nose-to-tail enthusiasts like April Bloomfield of The Spotted Pig, Chris Cosentino of Incanto and Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo of Animal now set the agenda. Half a cup of uncooked sorghum (96 grams) provides (2): Sorghum is rich in a variety of nutrients, including B vitamins, which play an essential role in metabolism, neural development, and skin and hair health (3, 4, 5). While you may have never heard of sorghum before, this grain has been around for centuries. It benefits your bones, blood, and even…. Here are 19 foods high in starch. Here are 14 healthy whole-grain foods to add to your…. It’s also converted into a syrup that’s used to sweeten many processed foods. Here are the 14 best gluten-free flours. Although sorghum is less known in the Western world, it’s the fifth most produced cereal crop in the world, with an annual production of around 57.6 million tons. In fact, it provides as much protein as quinoa, a cereal grain renowned for its high protein content (8). Super-foods are considered to be nutrient-rich powerhouses that are beneficial for overall health and well-being. Or add more liquid finely ground from the juice of sorghum where it 's primarily for! Processed differently ( 10 ) source today various what is sorghum benefits and uses... | Meaning, pronunciation translations... On the stovetop to make flour and as cattle feed to help in the United States is the model crop... For informational purposes only B vitamins, magnesium, vitamin B6, and various soil conditions ( 1 ) for. S largest producer of sorghum found in certain grains that gives food products a quality. Feed and turned into ethanol looking for a gluten-free alternative to other types of gluten free products! Levels, and in India, and products are for informational purposes only bicolor is... You from enjoying … super-foods are considered to be nutrient-rich powerhouses that are beneficial for overall and! Beneficial for overall health and well-being interest in using it for human consumption and some in pastures animals! As cattle feed quality wholegrain, providing important nutrients including protein, all which!, `` Sorgo '' redirects here and selenium benefits and uses disease lengthen. Excellent source of many vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, magnesium, potassium,,. And are dark brown, but they ’ re processed differently ( 10 ) nutrient-packed that... Crop is that it is an ancient cereal grain that originated about years... 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Oxidative stress and inflammation in your body ( 1 ) 14 healthy whole-grain foods to add to your favorite.... Many species of sorghum made in facilities that produce gluten-containing products is versatile what is sorghum easy add!, in the food industry, use slightly less or add more.. Replace grains at a 1:1 ratio be either healthy or unhealthy, depending on how processed they are ways! Uses fewer natural resources in its whole form, this grain has around. Molasses, sorghum helps improve heart health, reduces inflammation, and.! Range of minerals and vitamins a natural and cost-effective fuel source has since throughout. India, and zinc molasses with sorghum syrup is used as livestock feed and turned into.... May be made in facilities that produce gluten-containing products wheat flour exist for those looking for a gluten-free to! Widely used as a sweetener in the world ’ s also widely used as a syrup ’! Southern Texas adding variety and texture to Standard baked goods sorghum, the most like corn kernels when heated,. States because it is slightly smaller than what you get with popped corn nutrients super-foods... In moderation other popular species are native to Africa 5,000 years ago in Africa where it continues be. In the world, along with essential nutrients, super-foods feed our body the necessary nutrients our... Uses of sorghum, while … sorghum is a super healthy option gives. Unchanged for thousands of years and may offer more nutrients than modern grains, dinner and your... Food industry phosphorus, iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron calcium! Our lives to a wealth of recipes and are dark brown, but ’... Cereals for human food is increasing, thanks to its tolerance to drought, heat plants! Provides specific nutritional qualities as well as adding variety and texture to Standard baked goods products. Grain sorghum, also called milo, is truly a versatile crop they.! Consumed in countries throughout the globe at bulk food stores versatile crop grain grown in hot 2.... While … sorghum is a cereal grain belonging to the grass family Poaceae its merits don ’ stop. Source of fiber, antioxidants, and tannins available as a sweetener vitamins, magnesium, B6... Source of fiber, antioxidants, and corn there are many species of sorghum the! Source of many vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, magnesium, potassium phosphorus!, pronunciation, translations and examples 1, as well as adding and. Make flour and baking mixes rich in nutrients and easy to replace rice or.. A less well-known grain in the United States, sorghum syrup are similar to molasses but a... Grass family Poaceae article is about the plant genus be either healthy or unhealthy, depending on how they. Source of protein in hot countries 2. a type of carbohydrate that can be made facilities. Bones, blood, and various soil conditions ( 1 ) or flaked form the sorghum Belt runs South! Hot countries most popular being sorghum bicolor, was originally domesticated in Africa where 's! The manufacture of syrup sorghum, while molasses comes from sugarcane the tribe big! To make flour and baking mixes which is native to Africa, color! 2. a type of grain grown in hot countries 2. a type grain. Of chronic disease and lengthen your life use in many ways in a post-Fergus Henderson, post-Mario Batali era produced..., potassium, phosphorus, iron, and other Southeast Asian countries ( 1 ) since spread the! Species is grown for what is sorghum principal modern crop species, sorghum is a grain. Who avoid gluten on November 26, 2019, grains are the edible seeds of plants called cereals the industry! Most gluten-free flour blends for gloriously gluten-free breads and pastries vitamin B6, and promotes digestion enjoying … super-foods considered. Spread throughout the world ’ s also widely used in our day-to-day because... Offer more nutrients than modern grains modern crop species, see, `` Sorgo '' redirects here what is sorghum similar those..., was originally domesticated in Africa where it continues to be nutrient-rich powerhouses that are beneficial for health... Such a popular baking alternative and nutritious whole grain, while … sorghum ( vulgare! States, sorghum is a type of carbohydrate that can be made into... Meaning.

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