Quinoa is an edible seed that is cooked similarly to rice, simmered in broth or water, until it transforms into a fluffy grain that’s perfect for bowls, salads, and more! Quinoa is incredibly nutrient-packed, boasting fiber, protein, and antioxidants, and can be eaten hot or cold. It has a mild nutty flavor, a little bit of chew, and works well in a variety of meals in the kitchen. Here’s how you cook it!
Are there different colors or varieties of quinoa?
The most common variety of quinoa is white. It has the most mild flavor and also the fluffiest texture. There are also red and black varieties. Both of these tend to have a slightly stronger flavor and a little bit more chew.
What are the health benefits of quinoa?
It has a mild, nutty flavor and it’s very good for you! Quinoa has a higher protein content than any other grain, and it’s complete protein, meaning that it provides 9 essential amino acids. It’s also rich in fiber, and low on the glycemic index. It’s especially great for those who eat gluten free, vegan, and vegetarian diets because it is such a great source of nutrients, including both calcium, iron, and protein.
Where I can I buy quinoa?
As quinoa is becoming more and more popular, it is fairly easy to find it in a normal grocery store. It’s stocked near the dry rice and couscous. Also, check stores that carry grain in bulk. I buy quinoa from a bulk bin where I get a much better price than from a box. You can also find large bags in most Costco stores.
How do I cook quinoa?
It’s cooked much like rice. It can also be cooked in a rice cooker, but I use the stove top method most often.
- Soak: Most boxed varieties of quinoa come “pre-rinsed” but I always rinse mine regardless. It helps remove any lingering saponins (a coating the grains have in their natural state that can make the finished product a little bitter if not rinsed off) and it helps soften the outer shell and also remove any dust particles.
- Drain the quinoa to remove water from soaking and place grains in a small pot with a lid. Make sure your pot is large enough for the amount to triple in volume. Remember the basic ratio for quinoa is 1 part dry quinoa to 2 parts water or broth and it will yield triple the amount.
- Cook the quinoa by simmering for about 15 15 minutes or until all the water is used up. Remove pan from heat. I let mine sit on the stovetop (off of the heating element) for 5-10 minutes before taking the lid off.
- Fluff the quinoa and eat.
How to use quinoa
Quinoa can be used in a variety of ways. Try it as a substitute for rice, couscous, or orzo in recipes you already make! Here’s a few to try:
Coconut Almond Breakfast Quinoa
Roasted Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad
Black Bean and Mango Quinoa Salad
How to Cook Quinoa
Ingredients
- 2/3 C dry quinoa
- 1 1/3 cups water or broth chicken, vegetable, or beef
- 1 pinch salt
Instructions
- Place quinoa in a bowl and cover with 1 inch of water. Gently stir and carefully pour out excess water. Add water again until it covers quinoa by 1 inch. Let sit for 5 minutes. Drain.
- Place rinsed and drained quinoa in a pot with 1 1/3 cups water or broth, and pinch of salt, and bring to a simmer on the stovetop. Place tight-fitting lid on pot and simmer for about 15 minutes, until all the water is evaporated. Remove from heat and let sit 5 minutes. Fluff with fork.
Questions & Reviews
At our Enrichment night last month, this grain was talked about the most. It tastes good also. I love Orzo, but might have to try incorporating this grain instead. Thanks for sharing your great ideas.
Thank you. I just discovered Quinoa and have been wondering how to use it. I have used it in salads only so far. Thanks again for your wonderful blog. I really enjoy following along.
Quinoa cooks really well in the rice cooker too! I just do 1 part quinoa to 2 parts water/broth and turn it on =)
I can’t say that I have heard of Quinoa before but it sounds great with all of its nutrients. I just want you to know that I think that you ladies do a great job of posting delicious, healthy recipes. I am also in agreement that all things should be eaten and done in moderation. People that spend their life dieting but don’t exercise drive me nuts! My opinion is that you can’t complain unless you are doing all you can to be healthy. Sorry about the tangent, you ladies are GREAT! Thank you for helping me provide great meals for my family.
I made Quinoa last night and I cooked it in Thai coconut curry culinary Broth by College Inn, it’s just flavored chicken broth I got at Publix. it was yummmmmmy.
LOVE quinoa! My favorite breakfast- quinoa with chopped mango, toasted coconut and toasted slivered almonds. Yum!
LOVE quinoa! I make it in the rice cooker lots of times. Just be sure to stop it after 15 minutes or so because for some reason it doesn’t “pop”like it does with rice.
Weird!!! Was just reading about this today and wondered it was?? Thank you for educating me! And for the proper pronunciation. Let’s not discuss how I was butchering that! Lol!
Can’t wait for your recipe! 🙂
Because it’s low on the glycemic index, quinoa also a good option for diabetics too. I hope I’m not jumping the gun here, but I like to chop up veggies (like carrots, eggplant, broccoli and green onions) into tiny little bits and cook it with the quinoa. I might add some spices too, like cumin. Mmm…you’re making me crave some quinoa now! 🙂
Thank you so much! I have experimented a little with quinoa but am looking forward to your recipe.