Food uses of selected ancient grains

Abstract

The ancestral Latin American crops were used by the Mayans, Aztecs, Incas and other indigenous people from the Altiplano as a source of food, ingredients and spices, among others. For many years they were forgotten and relegated, but through different initiatives they are nowadays receiving a much better attention. In spite of the cited relegation, all these crops have played an important role in human nutrition throughout history. Based on their key nutrients and numerous nutraceuticals they are expected to be used in a more rational way and continue to do so up to this day as they are a source of nutrients and functional components; several of them are officially recognized as superfoods. Additionally, they are also recognized for their role in preventing various types of diseases, and by their delicious taste in dishes and preparations commonly recognized by all consumers.