Quinoa (keen-wah) is called the “Gold of the Incas” or “Mother Grain” even though it’s not technically a grain. It’s actually a seed from a plant in the same family as spinach and Swiss chard. Quinoa is a source of high-quality protein, providing three amino-acids that are typically limited in most other grains: lysine, methionine and cysteine. Be sure to rinse quinoa a few minutes before cooking (unless it’s marked “prewashed”). The seeds are coated with saponins, which will cause the cooked grain to have a bitter flavor if not removed.
Prep Time | |
5 minutes |
Cook Time | Passive Time |
15 minutes | 10 minutes |
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Easy!
Moderate (compared to other grains, quinoa is one of the more expensive)
Serves:8people
Serving Size:about 1/2 cup, or less (makes a total of 3 to 4 cups)
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Quinoa comes in white, red, and black, but they are all cooked the same way.
Tools:colander, large (4-quart) saucepan (Clear lids are great for cooking grains, so you can see how they're doing without lifting the lid.)
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- Rinse quinoa to remove the natural saponins that give it a bitter taste. (Some quinoa is already rinsed, which should be indicated on the package.)
- Use a large or wide saucepan so the quinoa will have plenty of room to cook evenly. If you have one, choose a heavy saucepan to prevent burning. Add water and salt, and bring to a full (rolling) boil. Add the quinoa and stir.
- Allow the water to come to a full boil again, then turn to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. (Set the timer and resist the urge to lift the lid.) Turn heat down if it starts to boil over.
- Remove from heat, keep covered and let stand for 10 minutes.
- Remove lid and fluff with fork.
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