Yen Can Cook: How to Cook Fluffy Quinoa

Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) is a grain crop grown primarily for its edible seeds. After harvest, the seeds must be processed to remove the coating containing the bitter-tasting saponins. The grains are in various colors, white, red and black depending on the cultivar.


Quinoa is gluten-free and excellent source of manganese and phosphorus. Cooked quinoa provides a moderate nutritional value of dietary fiber, folate, and the dietary minerals, iron, zinc and magnesium. (Source: Wikipedia)

The seeds are in general cooked the same way as rice. Its high protein and fiber content makes quinoa a great alternative to white rice. Since I’m on low carb diet (for dinner) therefore quinoa definitely suit my diet and it is the best to replace my rice intake.

I must admit the cooking method for quinoa can be confusing for a first timer. I referred to several videos and articles online when I need to cook it for the first time to get that perfect texture. After a few attempts, I’ve recorded the step by step on how to cook the perfect quinoa (not mushy or bitter, but delicate and perfectly fluffy) for you guys. Here we go!

 

Ingredients

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1 cup uncooked quinoa

Can be found at major supermarkets or organic shops. There are white, red, black or mixed quinoa, just get whatever you prefer and the cooking method can be applied to all variety.

2 cups water or broth
1/2 teaspoon salt

Tools
Fine-mesh strainer
Saucepan with lid

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Step 1: Place quinoa into a fine-mesh strainer, rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold running water to remove its bitter flavour. Rub and swish the quinoa with your hand while rinsing. Drain.

 

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Step 2: Tip the cleaned quinoa (Step 1) into a pan, stir in 2 cups of water or broth and the salt. Bring to a rolling boil.

Step 3: Turn heat down to the lowest setting. Cover and cook for 15 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

Step 4: Remove the pot from heat and let stand for 5 more minutes, covered.

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Step 5: Remove the lid, Fluff it up with a fork. Serve.

 

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I’m currently only have quinoa with salad, share with me how you eat them!

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