When it comes to finding healthy, delicious, and versatile ingredients for cooking, sorghum is often overlooked. But this ancient grain is a treasure trove of nutritional benefits and culinary possibilities. With its nutty flavor, chewy texture, and ease of digestion, sorghum is an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate more whole grains into their diet. In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouth-watering sorghum recipes that will take your meals from bland to grand. From savory risottos to sweet porridges, hearty salads to decadent desserts, there’s something for everyone in this collection of nutritious and easy-to-make recipes.
Savory Sorghum and Mushroom Risotto
Experience the unique flavor of sorghum grain paired with earthy mushrooms in this creamy, comforting risotto.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice (or other short-grain rice)
– 2 cups sorghum grain
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add the sorghum grain and stir to combine.
5. Warm the vegetable broth in a separate pot.
6. Add 1/2 cup of the warmed broth to the rice mixture, stirring until absorbed.
7. Repeat step 6, adding the broth in 1/2-cup increments, and waiting for each portion to absorb before adding more.
8. When the rice is cooked and creamy, about 20-25 minutes, stir in the sliced mushrooms and dried thyme.
9. Season with salt to taste.
10. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet Sorghum Porridge with Berries and Honey
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of sweet sorghum porridge, infused with the natural sweetness of berries and honey. This recipe is perfect for those looking for a nutritious and delicious breakfast option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sweet sorghum grain
– 4 cups water or plant-based milk
– 1/2 cup mixed berries (such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries)
– 2 tbsp honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sweet sorghum grain and soak it in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the sorghum again, then transfer it to a medium saucepan with 4 cups of water or plant-based milk.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sorghum is tender and creamy.
4. Stir in the mixed berries and honey until well combined.
5. Season with a pinch of salt to taste.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spiced Sorghum Salad with Chickpeas and Herbs
Experience the warm, comforting flavors of India with this nutritious salad, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of roasted sorghum, chickpeas, and aromatic herbs creates a delightful medley of textures and tastes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sorghum
– 2 cups water
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp ground coriander
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Rinse sorghum and soak in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and roast for 30 minutes.
2. In a large bowl, combine roasted sorghum, chickpeas, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and salt.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and a pinch of salt. Pour dressing over the sorghum mixture and toss to combine.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro leaves.
5. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes (including roasting time)
Creamy Sorghum Breakfast Bowl with Almond Butter
Start your day off right with this nutritious and delicious breakfast bowl, packed with the nutty flavor of sorghum and the creaminess of almond butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sorghum
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons almond butter
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup chopped dates
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: sliced banana, handful of spinach leaves
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the cooked sorghum and stir to combine.
3. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
4. Stir in the almond butter until smooth and creamy.
5. Add the rolled oats, chopped dates, and salt. Stir until well combined.
6. Serve warm, topped with optional sliced banana and handful of spinach leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your nutritious and tasty Creamy Sorghum Breakfast Bowl with Almond Butter!
Roasted Vegetable and Sorghum Grain Bowl
A nutritious and flavorful bowl filled with roasted vegetables, nutty sorghum grains, and a hint of citrus. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sorghum grain
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 small sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 small zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or basil)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook sorghum grain according to package instructions using water or broth.
3. In a separate bowl, toss bell peppers, sweet potato, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Spread vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
5. Fluff cooked sorghum grain with a fork and stir in lemon juice.
6. Assemble bowls by dividing the grain among four bowls, topping with roasted vegetables, and garnishing with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Herbed Sorghum Pilaf with Toasted Nuts
Herbed Sorghum Pilaf with Toasted Nuts: A flavorful and nutritious side dish perfect for accompanying your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sorghum grain
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup toasted nuts (almonds, pecans, or hazelnuts)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sorghum grain and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the soaked sorghum grain, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
5. Gradually add the water or broth, bringing the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the sorghum is tender.
7. Fluff the pilaf with a fork and stir in toasted nuts. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Sorghum Casserole with Spinach
This comforting casserole is a perfect blend of nutty sorghum, creamy cheese, and nutritious spinach. It’s an easy and satisfying meal for any day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sorghum
– 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked sorghum, spinach, and shredded cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk and olive oil.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sorghum-Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the natural sweetness of bell peppers with the nutty goodness of sorghum.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked sorghum
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix cooked sorghum, chopped onion, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the sorghum mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil.
6. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Crispy Sorghum and Kale Patties
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional patties, this recipe combines the nutty taste of sorghum with the earthy goodness of kale. Perfect as a snack or added to a sandwich, these crispy patties are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sorghum
– 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked sorghum, kale, oats, olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 6-8 patties.
5. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until crispy and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lemongrass-Infused Sorghum Soup
This refreshing soup combines the subtle sweetness of sorghum with the bright, citrusy flavor of lemongrass. Perfect for a light and comforting meal on a warm day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sorghum
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine sorghum, lemongrass, and vegetable broth.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until sorghum is tender.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Strain soup through a fine-mesh sieve into bowls. Discard solids.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sorghum Chocolate Chip Cookies
A twist on classic chocolate chip cookies, these treats use sorghum flour to add a nutty flavor and chewy texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sorghum flour
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sorghum flour and all-purpose flour.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
5. Stir in chocolate chips.
6. Drop rounded tablespoonfuls of dough onto prepared baking sheet, leaving about 2 inches between each cookie.
7. Bake for 12-14 minutes or until edges are lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 12-14 minutes
Curried Sorghum with Coconut Milk
This flavorful and nutritious dish combines the nutty taste of sorghum with the creamy richness of coconut milk, all wrapped up in a warm curry flavor. Perfect as a side or main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried sorghum
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
Instructions:
1. Rinse sorghum and soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
2. Drain and rinse the sorghum, then transfer it to a medium saucepan with 2 cups of water.
3. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes or until the sorghum is tender.
4. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Stir in curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Add coconut milk to the saucepan with the sorghum. Mix well, then add the curried mixture. Simmer for about 10 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Sorghum and Black Bean Burger
This vegan-friendly burger recipe combines the nutty flavor of sorghum with the richness of black beans, creating a nutritious and satisfying patty.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked black beans
– 1/2 cup cooked sorghum grains
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, mash the black beans using a fork or a potato masher.
2. Add the cooked sorghum grains, rolled oats, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the bowl. Mix well.
3. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the sorghum-black bean mixture to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the patties are golden brown.
6. Serve on a bun with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Maple-Glazed Sorghum Granola Bars
A sweet and crunchy treat made with nutritious sorghum, these maple-glazed granola bars are perfect for a quick breakfast or snack on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup chopped almonds
– 1/2 cup sorghum flour
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine oats, almonds, sorghum flour, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together maple syrup, honey, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
4. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and stir until combined.
5. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until lightly golden.
7. Remove from oven and let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sorghum Tabbouleh with Parsley and Mint
This recipe puts a modern spin on the classic Middle Eastern salad, substituting sorghum for bulgur to add nutty flavor and extra nutrition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sorghum
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked sorghum, parsley, and mint.
2. Add garlic and mix well.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss again.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Slow-Cooked Sorghum Jambalaya
This hearty, slow-cooked jambalaya is a twist on the classic Cajun dish, featuring sorghum instead of rice. The result is a rich and flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a cold winter night.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sorghum
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms)
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or slow cooker.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, and smoked paprika. Stir to combine.
4. Add the sorghum and season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a dash of hot sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Lemon Garlic Sorghum with Roasted Shrimp
Lemon Garlic Sorghum with Roasted Shrimp Recipe
A bright and citrusy sorghum dish pairs perfectly with succulent roasted shrimp, making for a delightful and refreshing dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup sorghum grain
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Rinse sorghum grain and soak in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
3. Drain and rinse sorghum again. In a medium saucepan, combine sorghum, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until sorghum is tender.
4. While the sorghum cooks, toss shrimp with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 8-10 minutes or until pink and cooked through.
5. Serve roasted shrimp over lemon garlic sorghum, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Sorghum and Pumpkin Seed Energy Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the nutty flavor of sorghum with the earthy taste of pumpkin seeds, providing a boost of energy and nutrition. Perfect for on-the-go or as a pre-workout snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup puffed sorghum
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup pumpkin seeds
– 1 tablespoon chia seeds
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine oats, puffed sorghum, and chia seeds.
2. In a small saucepan over low heat, warm the peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the peanut butter mixture over the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
4. Fold in pumpkin seeds.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
6. Roll into balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: Approximately 20 energy bites
Baked Apple Sorghum Pudding
This autumnal dessert combines the natural sweetness of apples with the nutty flavor of sorghum, all wrapped up in a warm and comforting pudding. Perfect for a cozy evening or a harvest-themed gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 large apples, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup cooked sorghum
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, cooked sorghum, brown sugar, heavy cream, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the pudding is set and the apples are tender.
5. Serve warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Sorghum Stir-Fry with Tofu and Vegetables
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of sorghum with the savory taste of tofu and a variety of colorful vegetables, creating a nutritious and delicious meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a packed lunch, this dish is also gluten-free and vegan-friendly.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sorghum
– 1/2 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and broccoli to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked sorghum, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the tofu to the pan and stir to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your healthy eating game with these 20 mouth-watering sorghum recipes! From savory dishes like Sorghum and Mushroom Risotto and Roasted Vegetable and Sorghum Grain Bowl, to sweet treats like Sorghum Chocolate Chip Cookies and Maple-Glazed Sorghum Granola Bars, there’s something for everyone. Plus, discover creative ways to incorporate this nutritious grain into your breakfast, lunch, and dinner routines. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a special occasion dish, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking with sorghum!