How to Cook Quinoa
Quinoa is a crop that is grown for its edible seeds and leaves. Quinoa seeds are typically eaten like cereal, but they are considered pseudocereals as the seeds do not actually come from grain. Quinoa is very nutritious and easy to cook, comparable to couscous in flavor but more filling. Here is the basic way to cook quinoa:
Basic Quinoa Recipe
Ingredients
One cup quinoa, uncooked and de-coated
One and a half cup water
One half teaspoon salt
Tools
Pot
Mixing bowl
Cup
Sieve
How to Cook
Before cooking the quinoa, you must first get rid of its bitter coating. To remove, vigorously rinse the quinoa seeds in a strainer for a few minutes. You should then leave it to soak for 15 minutes to half an hour, and rinse again. Longer soaking time means you’re more sure that the coating goes off.
To remove the coating in a jiffy, use hot water to soak the quinoa for around five minutes. Give it two vigorous rinsings, and you’re ready to go.
In your second rinsing, don’t throw the water away yet. Stir the quinoa slowly with one hand, and gradually drain the rinsing water. Sieve the quinoa out and strain dry. Repeat this process until the water runs clear.
Drain the quinoa for the final time, and use a sieve to transfer the quinoa from the mixing bowl to the pot.
Add the water and salt into the pot.
Cover the pot and put on medium heat. When the water boils, turn down the heat to a simmer. Let the quinoa cook for another 15-20 minutes.
To check if the quinoa is cooked, look if has expanded to become light and fluffy, steamy without being too wet or too dry. Turn off the stove and let the quinoa sit for another five to ten minutes.
If you want to cook more quinoa, the ratio of quinoa to rice is 1:1. It’s up to you if you want add more salt to taste.
Quinoa is a versatile food that can be included in casseroles, salads, pilaf and stir-fry. It can be a substitute for rice in rice recipes as well.