How to cook quinoa

Quinoa is one of the most important grains of the Andes, and although it is technically the seed of a grass, it is considered a grain or cereal. Also known as quinua, it is rich in protein, iron, magnesium, and has many vitamins. To make your dishes have a tasty and healthy ingredient, I share my tip on how to cook quinoa.

Step by Step

1
It is essential to wash quinoa well and rub it with your hands before cooking, as its shell contains saponins, toxins that give it its characteristic bitter taste. To wash quinoa correctly, you should rinse it under running water. Rub it with your hands until you no longer see foam. Soaking it is not recommended, as this does not remove the saponins.
2
Quinoa can be steamed or baked. To steam it, use three parts of water or broth for one part of grain; this way, it will double in size and release the white germ. You can also toast it for a few seconds in a pan before adding the liquid to cook it, which will give it a nutty flavor.
3
Keep it on low to medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the grain becomes transparent.
4
Quinoa can be prepared with vegetables, nuts, fruits, salads, cookies, muffins, and soups.
5
You will see that besides being nutritious, quinoa, considered a pseudocereal, is a delicious ingredient!