Calcium-rich Orange Fig Chia Marmalade on Amaranth Porridge

A delicious versatile tangy marmalade made with calcium-rich ingredients including chia seeds, dried figs, and oranges. The marmalade can be mixed with smoothies or yogurt; topped on pancakes, toast, oatmeal or in this recipe- amaranth porridge.

Oranges are high in vitamin C, potassium, calcium, and dietary fiber. The benefits of fiber include improved gut health.

1 orange = 60 mg calcium (Ca⁺⁺)

Dried figs are a concentrated source of essential nutrients, including dietary fiber, vitamins, such as vitamin K; and minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, iron, and calcium.

2 dried figs = 65 mg (Ca⁺⁺)

Chia seeds are packed with fiber, protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients necessary for bone health.

2 tablespoons chia seeds = 132 mg (Ca⁺⁺)

Amaranth has a rich cultural history; it is a pseudocereal and considered a whole grain. It is gluten free and full of nutrients including fiber, calcium, and magnesium.

1 cup cooked amaranth = 116 mg (Ca⁺⁺)

You can start the marmalade the night before or same day, but it needs time to cool and thicken. I experimented cooking times with the marmalade recipe and found that blending the ingredients at the end was better than before so I could get the desired consistency. I also had to adjust the amount of sweetener based on the sweetness of the oranges. To keep the recipe vegan, sweeten with date or maple syrup.