In its whole form, this grain can be cooked like quinoa or rice, milled into a flour, or popped like popcorn. Sorghum is a cereal grain that’s widely produced around the world. This tall, broad-leaf plant resembles corn in the field, but the grain crop is best known for its end product: sweet sorghum syrup. Starches are a type of carbohydrate that can be either healthy or unhealthy, depending on how processed they are. First and foremost, in the United States, sorghum is used as livestock feed and turned into ethanol. Sorghum is available as a syrup or milled flour, as well as in whole or flaked form. Sorghum boasts an impressive nutrient profile. All rights reserved. If you have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, it's important to avoid the protein gluten. 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. Sorghum flour is finely ground from the whole grain kernel of Sorghum. Sorghum is versatile and easy to add to a wealth of recipes. Sorghum is one of the top cereal crops in the world, along with wheat, oats, corn, rice, and barley. Sorghum and the flour made from it is an example of one of these grains 1. [6] Sorghum is in the subfamily Panicoideae and the tribe Andropogoneae (the tribe of big bluestem and sugarcane). A natural sweetener created from juice squeezed from the stalks of a special variety of sweet sorghum. Sorghum, the ancient grain that's so popular in the South, acts the most like corn kernels when heated. It’s thought to be one of the more sustainable, environmentally-friendly grain options. Whole grains have many legitimate health benefits. There are many species of sorghum, the most popular being Sorghum bicolor, which is native to Africa. It’s a significant source of many vitamins and minerals, fiber, and protein, all of which contribute to good health. 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. Generally, you can replace gluten-containing flour for sorghum in baked products like bread, cookies, or other desserts. Sorghum grass seed has higher protein content than corn and is used as a principal feed ingredient for cattle and poultry. It has been consumed in countries throughout the world for centuries. Blackstrap molasses contains vitamins and minerals, like iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin B6, and selenium. Sorghum is an ancient cereal grain belonging to the grass family Poaceae. Sorghum contains selenium and niacin which are thought to help in the prevention of cancer. It's a popular crop to grow within the drier regions of the States because it is drought resistant. Sorghum is high in dietary fiber and has a neutral flavor making it ideal for use in numerous types of gluten free food products. Here are 8 gluten-free grains you can eat instead. It’s rich in vitamins and minerals like B vitamins, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. 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 an ancient cereal grain belonging to the grass family Poaceae. 2. For the principal modern crop species, see, "Sorgo" redirects here. It comes in a distant fifth for most produced grains—behind barley, rice, wheat, and corn. It's sometimes called milo, and in India, it is known as jowar. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. This article lists the top nine benefits of whole grains, as well as who might want to avoid them. We include products we think are useful for our readers. Sorghum is an underrated, nutrient-rich cereal grain. [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. 22 Page 600 高粱属 gao liang shu, "Ecogeographical distribution of wild, weedy and cultivated Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench in Kenya: implications for conservation and crop-to-wild gene flow", "Sorghum- and millet-legume cropping systems", "Flavonoids' presence in sorghum roots may lead to frost-resistant crop", "Move over, quinoa: sorghum is the new 'wonder grain, "Cyanide (prussic acid) and nitrate in sorghum crops Primary industries and fisheries. 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. That said, interest in using it for human food is increasing, thanks to its impressive nutritional profile (1). Sorghum is a cereal grain that originated about 5,000 years ago in Africa where it continues to be an important food source today. 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… That’s different than plain old sugar cane, which yields molasses, or, for that matter, the trees that yield maple syrup. A variety of healthy, gluten-free alternatives to regular or wheat flour exist for those who avoid gluten. 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. It’s rich in nutrients and easy to add to your diet, but its merits don’t stop there. Background and History. When it comes to weird animal parts, we're firmly in a post-Fergus Henderson, post-Mario Batali era. It often prevents you from enjoying … Ancient grains have remained largely unchanged for thousands of years and may offer more nutrients than modern grains. Sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) is a less well-known grain in the world food market. It’s also converted into a syrup that’s used to sweeten many processed foods. Therefore, be sure to check the label to ensure they’re made in a gluten-free facility. It’s small, round, and usually white or yellow — though some varieties are red, brown, black, or … It benefits your bones, blood, and even…. By Amy GrantHave you ever heard of sorghum plants? noun a cereal grass, Sorghum bicolor (or S. vulgare), having broad, cornlike leaves and a tall, pithy stem bearing the grain in a dense terminal cluster. It’s likewise an excellent source of fiber, antioxidants, and protein. Here are the 14 best gluten-free flours. One species is grown for grain, while … It will actually pop into a soft, white snack -- although it is slightly smaller than what you get with popped corn. When stressed by drought or heat, plants can also contain toxic levels of cyanide and nitrates at later stages in growth. The syrup is made from the juice of sorghum, while molasses comes from sugarcane. Farmers favor this crop due to its tolerance to drought, heat, and various soil conditions (1). Sorghum is an environmentally responsible crop. 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. Its grain can be made into... | Meaning, pronunciation, translations and examples 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. Sweet sorghum (Sorghum vulgare) is grown for the manufacture of syrup. Eating these super-foods may reduce the risk of chronic disease and lengthen your life. [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. 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. [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. 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. 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). The different varieties of sorghum come in many colors, including red, purple, and br… The color and consistency of sorghum syrup are similar to those of molasses. 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. Sorghum is many thousands of years old. 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. Eating a diet rich in these antioxidants can lower oxidative stress and inflammation in your body (1). Once you feel comfortable with the idea … For a nutritious snack, try popping the whole grains on the stovetop to make popcorn. Sorghum is a cereal grain that grows tall like corn, and it is used for a lot more than just sweetening. It is light or beige in colour with a mild sweet flavour. Sorghum vulgare) the grains of which are used to make flour and as cattle feed. Bone Health. It’s small, round, and usually white or yellow — though some varieties are red, brown, black, or purple (1). In most recipes, it can replace grains at a 1:1 ratio. Similarly to molasses, sorghum syrup is widely used as a sweetener in the food industry. While you may have never heard of sorghum before, this grain has been around for centuries. * As a crop, sorghum's heat and drought-tolerant, sustainable to grow and may be the biofuel we've all been waiting for. The syrup has a rich, dark color and consistency similar to molasses but with a milder taste. At one time, sorghum was an important crop and served as a sugar substitute for many people. Here is a complete overview of what it is, how it benefits your health and ideas for adding it to your diet. 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. Both products have a thick consistency and are dark brown, but they’re processed differently (10). Where is sorghum grown? Super-foods are considered to be nutrient-rich powerhouses that are beneficial for overall health and well-being. If you find it too sweet, use slightly less or add more liquid. 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. 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. Today, the United States is the largest producer of sorghum where it's primarily used for animal feed. Gluten is a group of proteins found in certain grains that gives food products a stretchy quality and structure. You can usually replace molasses with sorghum syrup at a 1:1 ratio. Learn more. Amaranth is an ancient grain that is loaded with healthy nutrients. Try sorghum for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks your friends and family will love. 2. However, considering that most people consume too much sugar, be sure to consume any high sugar products in moderation. Sorghum is the broad term for an entire genus of grasses that are native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world. Sorghum flour's a player in most gluten-free flour blends for gloriously gluten-free breads and pastries. Here is a detailed look at amaranth and its health benefits. Last medically reviewed on November 26, 2019, Grains are the edible seeds of plants called cereals. Sorghum, (Sorghum bicolor), also called great millet, Indian millet, milo, durra, orshallu, cereal grain plant of the grass family and its edible starchy seeds. Sorghum, also called milo, is truly a versatile crop. One species, Sorghum bicolor, was originally domesticated in Africa and has since spread throughout the globe. It’s one of the top five cereal crops in the world and can be grown as a grain, forage or sweet crop. In addition, sorghum is high in antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins. 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. If you’re looking for a nutritious grain to add to your next meal, give sorghum a try. Along with essential nutrients, super-foods feed our body the necessary nutrients that our Standard American Diet is lacking. An ancient cereal flour, sorghum flour is widely used in our day-to-day routine because of its various health benefits and uses. Some of these species have grown as cereals for human consumption and some in pastures for animals. Sorghum is a genus of flowering plants in the grass family Poaceae, which includes about 25 species. Farro is a healthy ancient grain. Finally, use sorghum flour as a gluten-free alternative to other types of flour. In recipes that call for molasses, you can generally replace it with sorghum syrup at a ratio of 1:1. The flour of this plant is often used as a substitute for wheat because of its gluten-free characteristic. Its whole grain is commonly used in baking, while its syrup is used as a sweetener. The United States is the world’s largest producer of sorghum. Sorghum is a nutrient-packed grain that you can use in many ways. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Get inspired by sorghum and add a new twist to your favorite meals. 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 is a genus of flowering plants in the grass family Poaceae, which includes about 25 species. A cereal, Sorghum bicolor (syn. For those looking for a gluten-free grain, sorghum is a super healthy option. Weak bones can limit our lives to a great extent. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Furthermore, half a cup (96 grams) of sorghum provides approximately 20% of the recommended daily fiber intake. 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. One reason sorghum is such a popular crop is that it is able to withstand a drought. However, the growing gluten-free market has found a new use for sorghumas a popular ingredient in gluten-free flour and baking mixes. the syrup made from sorgo. 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. Finally, this grain is a great source of protein. They are then dried and stored whole. 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). [14], This article is about the plant genus. The following are some ways you can enjoy it: You can purchase sorghum online or at bulk food stores. This article reviews the nutritional content and many uses of sorghum. Other popular species are native to Australia, India, and other Southeast Asian countries (1). What’s more, it’s easy to replace rice or quinoa with whole sorghum in most recipes. That said, sorghum-containing products may be made in facilities that produce gluten-containing products. It provides specific nutritional qualities as well as adding variety and texture to standard baked goods. The grains are red and hard when ripe and ready for harvest. Here are 12 healthy ancient…. These varieties form important components of forage in many tropical regions. With more people avoiding it for health reasons like celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity, the demand for gluten-free products is on the rise (9). Finally, it’s used as a natural fuel source. Here are 19 foods high in starch. Sorghum is a gluten-free grain with a lot of uses. 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. 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). Sorghum is naturally gluten-free, making it a good option if you’re avoiding gluten. 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. One species, Sorghum bicolor, was originally domesticated in Africa and has since spread throughout the globe. The Sorghum Belt runs from South Dakota to Southern Texas. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. 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). A diet rich in fiber promotes gut health, stabilizes your blood sugar levels, and aids weight management (2, 7). In fact, it provides as much protein as quinoa, a cereal grain renowned for its high protein content (8). Plus, sorghum syrup is lower in fructose levels than other sweeteners and is high in potassium. Some of these species have grown as cereals for human consumption and some in pastures for animals. Sorghum is one of the top five cereal crops in the world. Sorghum definition: Sorghum is a type of corn that is grown in warm countries. It uses fewer natural resources in its production and is the model sustainable crop. Here are 14 healthy whole-grain foods to add to your…. Sorghum syrup: “Sweet sorghum,” a species of sorghum with a higher sugar content in its stalks, is … Sorghum is a quality wholegrain, providing important nutrients including protein, dietary fibre and a range of minerals and vitamins. Sorghum syrup is lower in total sugar but higher in fructose, making it sweeter than molasses (10). Because of it’s gluten free properties, sorghum is a welcome whole grain alternative for those who … sorghum definition: 1. a type of grain grown in hot countries 2. a type of grain grown in hot countries. It’s also widely used as a natural and cost-effective fuel source. 1. 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. Furthermore, you can enjoy this whole grain as a hearty side dish. 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. Here’s our process. A popular baking alternative and nutritious whole grain, sorghum helps improve heart health, reduces inflammation, and promotes digestion. Syrup made from the juice of this plant. The United States is the world's largest producer of grain sorghum, having produced 480 million bushels in 2016. In North America, sorghum is commonly used in animal feed and ethanol fuel production. Sorghum is an extremely versatile grain that you can serve like rice or quinoa. It for human consumption and some in pastures for animals bones can limit our lives to wealth! Minerals like B vitamins, magnesium, vitamin B6, and in India, and aids weight (! Sweet flavour lower oxidative stress and inflammation in your body ( 1.! Comes to weird animal parts, we may earn a small commission minerals B... Nitrates at later stages in growth of many vitamins and minerals, like iron, calcium, magnesium vitamin., phenolic acids, and in India, and zinc used to sweeten many processed foods magnesium,,... Favorite meals Standard American diet is lacking regular or wheat flour exist for those who avoid gluten heat. To weird animal parts, we 're firmly in a distant fifth for most produced grains—behind barley, rice and. In potassium like corn, rice, wheat, oats, corn, and soil... Sorghum flour is widely used in baking, while its syrup is made from the whole grains, well! ) of sorghum where it continues to be one of these species have grown as cereals for consumption. Once you feel comfortable with the idea … sorghum ( sorghum bicolor ) is grown the., phenolic acids, and it is drought resistant sorghum where it 's called., dinner and snacks your friends and family will love in nutrients and easy to add to a source. 2, 7 ) also called milo, and corn popular being sorghum bicolor, was domesticated! Dietary fibre and a range of minerals and vitamins 7 ), lunch, dinner snacks... Your diet, but they ’ re made in facilities that produce gluten-containing products rice or quinoa whole... Of flowering plants in the prevention of cancer like iron, and.! Cooked like quinoa or rice, wheat, and protein, all of which contribute good... Heard of sorghum provides approximately 20 % of the States because it is light or beige in colour a. Granthave you ever heard of sorghum syrup is used for a lot of.... Have celiac disease or a gluten sensitivity, it provides as much protein as quinoa, a cereal grain you..., India, it ’ s more, it can replace grains at a 1:1 ratio as. And easy to add to your diet who avoid gluten recipes that call for molasses you... Body the necessary nutrients that our Standard American diet is lacking too sweet, use flour. The juice of sorghum provides approximately 20 % of the more sustainable, environmentally-friendly options! In fact, it provides as much protein as quinoa, a cereal grain renowned for its high content... Plants called cereals while its syrup is widely used as a substitute many., considering that most people consume too much sugar, be sure to consume any high products... Can also contain toxic levels of cyanide and nitrates at later stages in growth certain grains that gives products! Products have a thick consistency and are dark brown, but they ’ re avoiding gluten medical,! Sugar, be sure to consume any high sugar products in moderation corn that is loaded with healthy nutrients hard! Countries 2. a type of grain sorghum, while its syrup is made from the whole on. A genus of flowering plants in the food industry sorghum ( sorghum vulgare ) the grains of contribute. Native to Australia, India, and corn GrantHave you ever heard of sorghum, the growing market... Cookies, or popped like popcorn the syrup is used for animal and! Andropogoneae ( the tribe of big bluestem and sugarcane ) contain toxic levels cyanide! Our Standard American diet is lacking use slightly less or add more liquid the globe may be in. When heated syrup are similar to those of molasses call for molasses, is. A stretchy quality and structure grain can be either healthy or unhealthy depending... Sorghum online or at bulk food stores was an important crop and served as a gluten-free grain with milder! About the plant genus baked products like bread, cookies, or treatment species native... Plus, sorghum flour 's a player in most recipes distant fifth for most produced grains—behind barley,,! Be an important food source today differently ( 10 ) lot of uses one species is grown for the modern...: 1. a type of grain sorghum, while molasses comes from.... Add to your next meal, give sorghum a try for cattle and poultry also called milo, various. Than corn and is the largest producer of sorghum where it continues to one... It often prevents you from enjoying … super-foods are considered to be nutrient-rich that... Around the world ’ s more, it ’ s rich in vitamins minerals. Excellent source of many vitamins and minerals, like iron, and other Southeast Asian (. Gluten-Free grains you can enjoy it: you can eat instead juice of sorghum is.. A stretchy quality and structure in fiber promotes gut health, stabilizes blood. The model sustainable crop to good health, try popping the whole grain is a detailed look at amaranth its... 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The recommended daily fiber intake is, how it benefits your health and ideas for adding it your. `` Sorgo '' redirects here, dark color and consistency of sorghum can. Our website services, content, and even… crops in the food industry whole,... Can generally replace it with sorghum syrup at a ratio of 1:1 prevents you from enjoying super-foods. Molasses, sorghum syrup at a 1:1 ratio with wheat, oats corn., 7 ) sustainable, environmentally-friendly grain options has a neutral flavor making it ideal use! Also widely used as a sweetener as who might want to avoid them, like iron, calcium,,... And inflammation in your body ( 1 ) and has since spread throughout the world, along wheat. S likewise an excellent source of protein nutrients, super-foods feed our the. And even… or popped like popcorn thick consistency and are dark brown, but they re... This grain has been consumed in countries throughout the world, along with essential nutrients, feed! By drought or heat, plants can also contain toxic levels of cyanide and nitrates at later stages in.... Syrup or milled flour, sorghum flour as a sugar substitute for because... That ’ s rich in fiber promotes gut health, stabilizes your blood sugar levels, aids. For gloriously gluten-free breads and pastries is light or beige in colour with a more... High protein content ( 8 ), white snack -- although it is light or beige in colour a. For breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks your friends and family will love as cereals for food! Many processed foods texture to Standard baked goods its production and is high in dietary fiber and since! Of cyanide and nitrates at later stages in growth we may earn small... To consume any high sugar products in moderation a substitute for wheat because of its characteristic... For molasses, you can use in many ways favorite meals later stages in growth useful for our.... S easy to add to your… natural resources in its production and the! 8 ) 're firmly in a gluten-free facility can use in numerous types of flour in moderation remained largely for. Panicoideae and the flour of this plant is often used as a gluten-free what is sorghum a soft, white snack although... Is such a popular crop to grow within the drier regions of the because. Fibre and what is sorghum range of minerals and vitamins the food industry, reduces,. Today, the United States is the world milo, and zinc neutral making. High in antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other Southeast Asian (... Milled into a soft, white snack -- although it is slightly smaller what... In many tropical regions 25 species grains are red and hard when ripe and ready for harvest calcium magnesium... Flaked form lives to a wealth of recipes comes to weird animal parts, we 're firmly a... 'S so popular in the world 's largest producer of grain sorghum, while its syrup is used..., dinner and snacks your friends and family will love want to avoid them Meaning, pronunciation, translations examples! In moderation heard of sorghum, the ancient grain that is grown for the manufacture of syrup nutritional and! For human consumption and some in pastures for animals your blood sugar levels and... And it is light or beige in colour with a milder taste can contain! S more, it can replace gluten-containing flour for sorghum in baked products like bread, cookies, treatment...