Cooking with sorghum is a relatively new concept, but it’s predicted to become one of the most popular food trends of 2017. This ancient grain has started making appearances on store shelves, bulk bins and in baked goods. Sorghum products currently available include:

• Whole grain sorghum or pearled sorghum
• Sorghum flour or flour blends
• Popped sorghum
• Sorghum molasses
• Prepared foods including snacks, gluten-free baked items and more

Cultivated sorghum is native to desert regions of Africa, but it also thrives in the high heat and humidity of Kansas. The deep root system and natural defenses of the sorghum plant are well suited for thriving in this climate. Sorghum is heat- and drought-tolerant, making it interesting to consumers who want to reduce the environmental impact of their food choices. Sustainability is a priority in the minds of millennial shoppers so that is one factor driving this new trend with sorghum products. 

More than half of all food-grade sorghum produced in the United States is grown right here in our state. While only one variety of sorghum is produced for human use, there are other varieties destined for animal feed, biofuels and the production of alcoholic beverages.

There’s a lot to love about sorghum. Let’s take a closer look at some of the features that make it unique.

Why Dietitians Love It

Whole Grain

Whole grains and quality carbohydrates are well deserving of a place in your diet. Carbohydrates provide the essential energy we need to thrive, but sourcing them from whole grains (instead of highly processed or refined grains) is preferred. You’ll also get a hefty dose of fiber with sorghum, which delivers 12 grams for each one-cup serving.

Gluten Free Option

Sorghum is naturally gluten free, meaning it is a good substitute for those who follow a gluten-free diet for health or personal reasons. A dietitian can guide you on the best way to replace gluten products in your diet in a healthful way, so please reach out to a registered dietitian in Kansas  if you suspect you may benefit from a gluten-free diet. 

Nutrient Dense

Sorghum contains essential vitamins (niacin and Vitamin B6) and minerals (iron, copper, phosphorus and magnesium). Sorghum also delivers unique antioxidants that are not commonly found in other foods. These antioxidants are of interest to cancer researchers as they have been associated with a decreased risk of esophageal or stomach cancers. 

Why Families Love It

Simple To Prepare

You can cook sorghum at home with just a few simple steps. Like any other grain or rice, it’s prepared using a ratio of dry or uncooked grain to water. Sorghum is a denser grain so use a 3:1 ratio (3 cups of liquid for every 1 cup of sorghum). Bring your liquid to a boil, then reduce to a simmer until all liquid is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once finished, remove from heat, fluff with a fork and add to your favorite recipe. Need ideas? Check out these options from Street Smart Nutrition.

• Sweet Potato Sorghum Salad
• Summer Sorghum Bowl with Sweet Corn Succotash

Mild Flavor

While sorghum has a different texture than other whole grains, its flavor is very mild. It easily adapts to your favorite recipes by pairing well with sauces, herbs, spices or other seasonings you already use and love. 

Freezer Friendly

Because of its dense texture, cooked sorghum retains its quality better than smaller grains when frozen. Cook up a large batch, serve what you need and freeze the rest. When ready to reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or soak in warm water and strain before using it as you normally would. 

Trend Forecast

Sorghum is projected to be one of the top new foods trends. As you’ve already seen, it’s versatility, simplicity and nutrition profile help boost its newfound popularity among consumers and dietitians alike.

I spoke with Earl Roemer, of Nu Life Market in Kansas. He predicts that sorghum as an ingredient in snack foods and gluten-free baked foods will continue to see the most growth in 2017. His company has already seen a surge in interest. Compared to just a few years ago, when sorghum wasn’t a household ingredient, sales for Nu Life Market have grown exponentially. Their all-purpose flour mix and popped sorghum are among their best-sellers. While sorghum products aren’t readily available in all stores (yet), online shopping can connect you with this trendsetting ingredient if you’re interested in trying it for yourself.

Now we want to know: Have you already tried sorghum? Share a favorite recipe or tell us how you like to use it in a comment or tweet. 

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