Quinoa

A quick-cooking seed (not technically a grain) that's high in protein. Rinse it first to wash off the bitter coating, then simmer in salted water or broth for about 15 minutes.

Quinoa

Used for

  • grain bowls
  • salads
  • stuffed vegetables
  • breakfast porridge

In the kitchen

  • rinse first
  • cook-grains
  • season cooking liquid

Picking it at the store

  • White quinoa is the most neutral; red and black have a nuttier, earthier flavour and chewier texture
  • Rinse well before cooking — the bitter saponin coating is the most common reason beginners hate quinoa

Related terms

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