Amazing Amaranth Candy (Alegría)

Heat a wide-bottomed pan with a lid over medium-high heat.

Add 1 tablespoon of the amaranth to the pan, cover and cook over medium-high heat until most of the grains have popped, about 30 seconds.

Transfer to a bowl. Repeat with remaining amaranth, 1 tablespoon at a time.

Add pumpkin seeds to popped amaranth.

Heat sugar in a deep pot over medium heat. The granules will slowly begin to melt.

Add molasses. When molasses begins to boil steadily, stir to incorporate the sugar.

Remove from heat and immediately add popped amaranth and pumpkin seeds. Stir well to coat.Quickly transfer to a parchment lined 9 x 9-inch pan and spread evenly with a spatula. Immediately cut to desired size.

Let cool before serving.