Cooking and Food

Anyone Can Learn How to Cook Quinoa!

Quinoa is a light and delicate food that can be substituted for just about any grain.  Not only does it taste great, but it also is extremely good for you.  Health experts often call it a super food, because it is loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.  Additionally, quinoa is a rich source of vegetarian protein.  The protein content is considered to be superior to most other plant-based foods, thanks to the fact that it contains all of the essential amino acids that are required for optimum human health.  Of particular note is the fact that it contains lysine which is an amino acid that is required for cellular repair that is missing from most other grain-type foods.

Although not technically a grain (it is a seed) quinoa is treated as such in cooking.  No matter what your skill level is in the kitchen, you can learn how to cook quinoa.  The most important thing to remember is to rinse it prior to cooking.  The reason for this is that the exterior of quinoa is covered in a bitter substance called saponin.  All you need to do is place it in a fine strainer and rinse until the water runs clear.  Next you will use two parts liquid and one part quinoa.  Bring them to a boil and then reduce the heat to medium low and simmer covered for about 15 minutes.

Once your quinoa is done, you can add it to soups, stir fries and salads.  I love to make a quinoa salad using balsamic vinaigrette dressing. I just combine the quinoa with blue cheese, red peppers, and some black beans.  I toss it with the dressing and either serve it at room temperature or chilled.  It is a great healthy lunch that is perfect to take to work with me!

Now you know how to cook quinoa perfectly!