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Health

What is quinoa and what are its benefits?
Health

What is quinoa and what are its benefits?

By Gretel Morales - 2024-04-09T13:57:31Z
At Kiwilimón, we know that your health and nutrition are the most important, so we always keep you informed about superfoods and all kinds of health-beneficial ingredients. This time it's the turn of quinoa, have you tried it?

You can also read: 10 quinoa recipes for a healthy diet

What is quinoa?

Quinoa, also known as quinua, is a pseudocereal used in the preparation of all kinds of snacks, salads, bread, cookies, and much more.

Although it may seem very different from rice, it actually cooks in a very similar way, as it is washed and boiled in water until al dente.

Once it cools, it can be added to salads, used to make patties with chicken or vegetables, or even to make snacks for kids and adults. It is a very versatile food!

See more: 4 options for healthy breading

What is quinoa used for?

This ingredient began to be consumed in South America thousands of years ago and was primarily cultivated in Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, and Peru. Today, it is considered a superfood because it is rich in nutrients, including:
  • Folic acid
  • Vitamin B complex
  • Fiber
  • Iron
  • Magnesium
  • Omega-3 and 6
  • Potassium
  • Protein
  • Vitamin C
It also has anti-inflammatory properties and is gluten-free, making it an excellent option for people with celiac disease.

The food of the future?

Because it is a very versatile food and the plant easily adapts to other climates and soils, international organizations consider quinoa to be a good option for the future, as it is also very economical.

Did you know? There are three types of quinoa: white, black, and red. Have you tried any?
Bowl of salad with quinoa
Read also: Everything you need to know about superfoods

Quinoa recipes

Since quinoa is rich in protein and many other nutrients, do not hesitate to include it in your meals, as it is also filling and has a slight nutty flavor that you will love. So remember that at Kiwilimón we have the best quinoa recipes for you:

1. Quinoa salad with chicken
2. Stuffed chayotes with quinoa
3. Pumpkin and quinoa pie
4. Stuffed eggplants with quinoa
5. Spinach croquettes

Kiwilimón Tip: To make your quinoa fluffy and well-cooked, it should be cooked as follows:
  1. Cook 1 cup of quinoa with 2 cups of water.
  2. Keep the quinoa on low heat, uncovered.
  3. Cook until the water has evaporated.
  4. Remove from heat, cover, and let it rest.
Now that you know the many benefits and properties of this pseudocereal, do not hesitate to incorporate it into your meals, as it will provide the best nutrients. Are you ready to try it?