Microwave Canned Soup With Instant Amaranth

Craving something hearty but stuck with a tight budget and even tighter schedule? We’ve cracked the code to affordable, filling meals that don’t skimp on flavor or nutrition. This microwave canned soup with instant amaranth turns pantry staples into a cozy bowl of comfort in under 10 minutes.

Think of it as your kitchen’s MVP: cheap, quick, and packed with protein-rich amaranth to keep you full longer. No gourmet skills or fancy equipment required—just a microwave and a hungry appetite.

Below, we’ll break down everything from nailing the perfect texture to boosting flavor with budget-friendly add-ins. Let’s make lazy cooking look genius.

What is Instant Amaranth?

Instant amaranth is a pre-cooked, quick-prep version of the ancient pseudocereal (technically a seed, not a grain). Unlike raw amaranth, which takes 20+ minutes to simmer, instant amaranth cooks in under 5 minutes—perfect for our microwave soup hack. My uncle Peter, a self-proclaimed “superfood sleuth,” first introduced it at a family reunion by dumping it into his chili. We thought he’d lost it…until we tried it.

Nutritional Benefits Of Instant Amaranth

This tiny powerhouse packs 9g of protein per cooked cup and all nine essential amino acids—rare for plant-based foods. It’s also rich in fiber (5g per cup) and magnesium, which supports muscle recovery. Grandma still claims her chicken soup heals souls, but amaranth? It’s science with a side of crunch.

Instant Amaranth Vs. Other Grains (Cornmeal, Couscous, Quinoa)

Compared to cornmeal (gritty) or couscous (mild), instant amaranth offers a nutty, slightly peppery flavor and retains a pleasant chew. Unlike quinoa—which can turn mushy in broths—amaranth stays toothsome. Nutritionally, it beats them all with higher protein and iron content. Budget bonus: it’s often cheaper than quinoa!

What Does Microwave Canned Soup With Amaranth Taste Like?

Imagine your go-to canned soup—say, chicken noodle or tomato—but with a toasty, earthy backbone from the amaranth. The seeds plump up like mini popcorn kernels, adding texture without overwhelming the broth. At last year’s reunion, Grandma sneak-tested it in her veggie soup. Verdict? “Not bad for hippie food.” High praise. If you’re in the mood for something even easier, lazy microwave canned chicken noodle soup is the perfect choice for a quick meal. Just pop it in the microwave and enjoy a comforting bowl in minutes.

Flavor Profile and Texture Combinations

In broth-based soups (like chicken or miso), amaranth adds depth without heaviness. Cream-based versions (think broccoli cheddar) gain a satisfying contrast—silky soup meets subtly crunchy seeds. Pro tip: add a dash of smoked paprika or garlic powder to bridge the flavors. Uncle Peter insists on Sriracha, but we’ll forgive his heat obsession.

Now that you know why amaranth rocks, let’s talk building your bowl—because nobody wants a sad, soggy soup. When crafting a delicious soup, consider how microwaves can be a convenient tool in heating it up. Microwave soup can be a quick and easy meal option, perfect for busy days.

Ingredients for Microwave Canned Soup With Instant Amaranth

Let’s raid that pantry! You likely have 90% of these items already. Our formula: 1 can soup + ¼ cup instant amaranth + water + flair. Here’s how to play mixologist with your shelf staples.

Canned Soup Base Options (Broth-based Vs. Cream-based)

Broth-based soups (chicken noodle, vegetable, miso) blend seamlessly with amaranth’s nuttiness. They’re our top pick for light yet filling meals. Cream-based options (broccoli cheddar, potato chowder) create richer textures—just thin them with 2-3 tbsp water to balance thickness. For a quick and satisfying meal, a creamy corn chowder made in the microwave can be a delightful option. This easy dish brings the comforting flavors of traditional chowder to your table in a fraction of the time.

Instant Amaranth Substitutes: Couscous, Quinoa, or Quick Oats

Out of amaranth? Couscous cooks similarly fast but lacks protein (sorry, gym rats). Quinoa needs 30 extra seconds microwaving. Quick oats? They’ll thicken soups into stews—use half the amount. Pro tip: stick to ¼ cup dry grain per 10oz soup for best texture. For an even easier option, consider adding cheap microwave canned soup to your meals, as they pair perfectly with instant couscous for a quick and satisfying dish.

Optional Add-ins: Frozen Vegetables, Canned Beans, or Spices

Elevate basics with freezer/pantry heroes: frozen peas (30 sec cook time), canned black beans (drained), or spices (garlic powder FTW). My college hack: stir in kimchi post-microwave for tangy heat. Canned beans are an excellent option for quick meals, and microwaving them is fast and easy. No judgment if you steal that move.

Also See: Microwave Lemon Blueberry Mug Cake in Minutes!

How to Make Cheap Microwave Canned Soup With Instant Amaranth

Confession: I once microwaved soup + amaranth straight from the can. The molten-lava explosion taught me bowl selection matters. Follow these steps to avoid my Pyrex-related regrets. Pyrex glass is a great option for microwave use because it withstands heat well. Just make sure to check for any cracks before putting it in the microwave to prevent mishaps.

Step 1: Adjust Soup Liquid for Amaranth Absorption

Amaranth drinks ~¼ cup liquid as it cooks. Pour your canned soup into a 4-cup microwave-safe bowl, then add ¼ cup water or broth. Cream-based? Use ⅓ cup liquid—it thickens more. For a quick meal, consider using a microwave soup recipe that complements your amaranth dish perfectly and saves time in the kitchen. These recipes are designed for easy preparation and can help make mealtime simpler without sacrificing flavor.

Step 2: Combine Soup and Amaranth in Microwave-safe Bowl

Stir in ¼ cup instant amaranth until submerged. Leave 1-inch space from the rim—trust me, nobody likes scrubbing microwaves. Drop in frozen veggies now if using. For a quick meal option, try pairing the amaranth with lazy microwave frozen chicken nuggets. This combination makes for an easy and delicious dinner that requires minimal effort.

Step 3: Microwave Timing and Power Settings

Nuke on high for 3 minutes. Have a 700W microwave? Go 4 minutes. Peek at 2 minutes: if bubbling violently, pause for 10 seconds to calm the chaos. Properly monitoring your microwave is essential, especially because hot microwaves can generate extreme temperatures that vary depending on the food and power settings.

Step 4: Resting and Fluffing the Amaranth

Let it sit 2 minutes—this finishes absorption without overcooking. Fluff gently with a fork. Find some stubbornly crunchy seeds? Microwave 15 seconds more. However, it’s important to note that not all foods should be microwaved in the same way. In fact, there are common mistakes people make when microwaving certain foods that can lead to unexpected results.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve

Canned soups can be sodium bombs or timid flavor-wise. Taste first! Brighten with lemon zest or humble black pepper. Serve with crackers crumbled over top for crunch-theatre. For a quick meal, pairing canned soup with cheap microwave canned soup crackers makes for a satisfying treat. These crackers not only add texture but can be a budget-friendly option to enhance the soup experience.

Also See: Lazy Microwave Canned Ravioli & Garlic Bread: Easy Meal

Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them

We’ve all created kitchen horrors. Last week, my “soup” resembled cement. Here’s how to salvage near-disasters.

Avoiding Overcooked Amaranth or Watery Soup

Overcooked amaranth turns gummy. If your soup looks dry mid-microwave, add 1 tbsp water. Too watery after cooking? Microwave 30 seconds uncovered. Stir vigorously—it’ll thicken as starch releases.

Fixing Underseasoned or Bland Flavors

Bland? Acid is your ally. Squeeze lemon/lime or add ½ tsp vinegar (even when heated in microwave). For depth, mix in ¼ tsp smoked paprika or onion powder. Umami boost: sprinkle nutritional yeast or a dash of soy sauce.

Now that you’ve mastered the basics, let’s tackle keeping leftovers edible (because reheating shouldn’t be a gamble).

Now It’s Your Turn to Try!

With just a can of soup and instant amaranth, you’ve got a budget-friendly meal that’s ready in minutes. The nutty texture of amaranth pairs perfectly with creamy or brothy soups, making it a versatile pantry staple.

Experiment with different soup bases, proteins, or spices to customize your bowl. Let us know which combo hits the spot—we’re always hunting for new microwave hacks!