Quinoa (pronounced keenwah) is becoming very popular now for good reason.
The Incas of the Andean region of South America called it the "mother of all grains".
Some interesting nutritional facts for you: * quinoa is very high in protein, it has a near perfect balance of all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein food - excellent for vegetarians and vegans and those who desire a lot of protein in their diet (i.
e.
, bodybuilders) * quinoa is gluten free * quinoa is very high in amino acids, lysine in particular, which distinguishes it from other grains (although technically quinoa is not a grain, it is more closely related to beets or spinach than actual grains) Always rinse quinoa before cooking as it has a bitter coating (a natural deterrent protecting it from pests).
Depending on the source of the quinoa you buy, it may be pre rinsed or not.
I would advise to rinse it anyway (make sure you have a fine mesh sieve though, quinoa grains are tiny).
If you do experience any bitter taste you could try soaking it for 10 to 15 minutes, or pour boiling water over it and wait 5 minutes before cooking.
It generally takes 10 to 15 minutes to cook.
I usually place the quinoa in boiling water with a stock cube added (1 part quinoa to 2 parts water).
This is absolutely delicious on it's own, very sweet and tasty, I love adding it to soups, curries and casseroles as it thickens the sauce and adds so much nutritional value, but you can leave it to cool and use in salads.
Basically this is a fantastic 'superfood' and is an excellent and superior alternative to rice, couscous, potatoes or pasta in your diet.