How to Use Quinoa

Quinoa is the edible seed of cereal like crop plant, Chenopodium quinoa. Classified under the goosefoot family, this pseudocereal is a rich source of complete proteins, dietary fiber, and minerals. It contains lysine and essential amino acids, proving it to be far more superior to other protein rich cereal grains.

Unfortunately, this superfood doesn't get the appreciation or attention that it deserves. The main reason is, not many people know how to use quinoa in their daily diet.

In stir fry recipes, quinoa makes a perfect substitute for white rice. You can also use it in breakfast and snacking with a little alteration in the serving style. As far as cooking this grain is concerned, you can prepare it like white rice.

A preparatory step is to rinse the grains thoroughly to get rid of the saponins. After cooking, it turns soft and fluffy with a slight nutty flavor. Plain cooked quinoa tastes similar to boiled rice, and can be used as the base for serving in breakfast, lunch, and snacks.

You can boil 1 cup rinsed quinoa in 2 cups of low-fat milk. Once the mixture reaches boiling temperature, reduce heat, cover with a lid, and cook for 15 minutes. By now, more than half of the milk portion will be absorbed by the grains.

Stir in 3 tablespoons of brown sugar and ⅛ teaspoon cinnamon powder. Cook with the lid on for 8 more minutes, and add 1 cup fresh blueberries. Remove from heat immediately and serve it hot.

A popular way for using quinoa is to add it in stir-fry recipes, just like rice. For making an egg stir fry recipe with quinoa, scramble eggs first with salt and pepper. Spoon 2 tablespoons oil in a wok and add cooked quinoa, 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (or soy sauce), scrambled egg, and chopped green onion.

For vegetarians, replace eggs with chopped veggies. Season and stir fry dish with salt, cayenne pepper, and pepper to suit your taste buds.

Mix cooked quinoa with olives, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and your favorite raw veggies. You can make a meaty side dish by tossing some baked chicken pieces. Divide in individual serving platters. At the time of serving, garnish with herbs like parsley, cilantro, and oregano.

Snacking with quinoa is a healthier alternative to eating potato fries and the regular oil laden snack items. Baking fruit and nut bars using quinoa is one option. Another choice is to simply mix plain cooked quinoa with healthy nuts and seeds like walnuts, almonds, pistachios, pumpkin seeds, etc.

You can also make a salad with chopped veggies and dressing for serving as snacks.