Sorghum
Spice name: Sorghum
Spice Image:
Product description: Sorghum belongs to a category of a flowering plant in the grass family of Poaceae. The family has around 25 species under this category. Generally, people consume most of these plants as cereals and as fodder for animals. This plant has no particular place of origin as it was found in and around the world; for example, one of its species- Sorghum bicolor, was first discovered in Africa, and since then, it has been found in various corners of the world. It is grown under a favorable type of warm climate and is often found in pasture lands. In India, sorghum is known as jowar, cholam or Jonna. Sorghum is highly valued in hot and arid regions as it is highly resistant to heat and drought. This grass is strong and normally grows to a height of 2 to 8 feet. The central part of the stalk is quite juicy and sweet. The grass bears flowers, and each flower cluster 800-3000 kernels. The seeds vary n shape and size and color, but they are a bit smaller than the grains of wheat. Sorghum is widely consumed as it has lots of healing properties.
Health Benefits:
- Sorghum has strong properties that can retard the growth of cancer tumor cells.
- It may protect against diabetes and provide resistance against insulin.
- People with celiac disease consume sorghum to ensure their safety.
- A lot of patients take sorghum to manage their cholesterol levels.
- Sorghum contains a lot of antioxidants, which is higher than other grains and fruits.
Uses: The following are the ways how sorghum can be used:
- Sorghum is used as a cereal and also as animal fodder.
- It is also used in the making of alcoholic beverages.
- It’s an important component in the making of bio-fuel.
- It is gluten-free and can be made into porridge, cakes and flatbreads.
- The grain of the plant is processed to extract edible oil, starch, paste etc.
- They are also used sometimes in the production of ethyl alcohol.
How to store:
Every grain needs to be stored in a cool dark place to avoid moisture. It should be stored in an air-tight container. The grains can last a long period in such conditions. If you have to store the flour of sorghum, it should be kept in a similar air-tight container in a cool place, and it can last for a few months. If you want the flour to last a bit longer, then you may consider keeping the container in the fridge. If you don’t find any scent (which it normally has), then toss it out as it may have reached its expiry.
Another product of sorghum is the sorghum syrup. It is similar to honey or maple syrup. It will last for a long time, but if you notice the formation of crystals, then you may gently heat it over a pot of water.
Nutritional Profile:
In 100 grams of sorghum, there is around,
Calories of 316
Fiber- 6g
The total fat of 3g
Vitamin B1- 26 % of the daily value (DV)
Vitamin B2- 7% of DV
Vitamin B5- 7% of DV
Vitamin B6- 25% of DV
Copper- 30% of DV
Iron- 18% of DV
Magnesium- 37% of DV
Phosphorus- 22% of DV
Zinc- 14% of DV
Potassium- 7% of DV
The total carbohydrate of 69g
Protein of 10g
Other than that, it has Calcium, Iron, Vitamin B-6, and Magnesium. It is also highly rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins.
Botanical name: Sorghum bicolor.
Family: Poaceae.
Sub-family: Panicoideae.
Tribe: Andropogoneae.
Part used: Seeds.
Grades: (Natural)