How to Make Quinoa Simply and Easily
Quinoa has become a popular alternative to rice and other grains simply because of how easy, versatile and delicious it is to eat. Not only that, but it is very popular due to its low glucose index compared to white rice or other starchy grains.
In this article, we explore the different methods on how to make it by providing you with a solid base to work from. Once you learn the basics of how to make quinoa, you can then apply them effortlessly and without having to be tied to your iPad or tablet recipe app.
What is Quinoa?
Quinoa is native to the South American Andes and was a common food of the Incas, who referred to quinoa as the “mother grain.” Although not botanically a true grain, quinoa’s tiny seeds are treated as such. The grains are small, flattened spheres, approximately 1/16″ (1.5mm) in diameter, ringed with the germ.
Quinoa becomes transparent when cooked and have a slightly smoky or sesame-like flavor. Several varieties of quinoa are available, ranging in color from dark brown to almost white. The larger whiter varieties are the most common and are considered superior.
Quinoa has a natural, bitter-tasting coating, which protects them from birds and insects. When learning how to make quinoa, you would benefit greatly by rinsing the quinoa in a fine mesh colander under cold water for several minutes.
A Complete Protein
Quinoa is marketed as the world’s “super grain” because the seeds form a complete protein (with all of the essential amino acids) and contain important vitamins and minerals as well as carbohydrates and fat.
Storing
Quinoa should be stored in the refrigerator. For long term storage, keep in the freezer.
Uses and Types of Quinoa
Surprisingly, quinoa can be used for a variety of applications. It can be used as a healthy hot breakfast, used as a thickener for soups or stews and in salads, casseroles, breads, and desserts.
Types of Quinoa
White Quinoa
This is the most common type of quinoa available in stores and you will often find it marketed as plain.
Red Quinoa
This type is known by chefs to hold its shape much better when cooked compared to the white variety, making it a suitable choice for salads.
Black Quinoa
Black quinoa is a bit sweeter and earthier than white quinoa and is able to retain its black color when cooked.
Uses for Quinoa
- Substitution for Rice
- Hot Breakfasts
- Sweet or Savory Flavor Profiles
- Soups
- Stews
- Salads
- Casseroles
- Desserts
Recipe
| Servings | Prep Time |
| 2 People | 5 Minutes |
| Cook Time |
| 20 Minutes |
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This simple and easy quinoa recipe gives you the foundations to build your creativity from. Learn how to make quinoa without the need of a recipe book.
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- Rinse the quinoa hulls using a colander under cold water for 2 - 3 minutes
- Combine the quinoa and the water into a saucepan
- Bring the water to a boil
- Reduce and cover. Simmer for 15 minutes
- Remove from heat, fluff with fork and serve
At this stage, the quinoa is ready for its next mission. From here, you can cool it by spreading it out over a pan and letting it cool and release moisture. You can serve it immediately, or combine into another dish such as a stir fry or into a soup.
Variations
Quinoa Pilaf Method
- Add 15 ml (1 Tbsp) oil to the saucepan
- Roast pilaf for 1 - 2 minutes before adding liquid. Longer cook times yield nuttier flavor
Stock/Broth
- Substitute water for chicken stock (or broth) for a more deeper flavor
