
Have you ever heard of Quinoa? In case you haven't, it's pronounced, "keen-wah." It's an ancient grain originally from South America, and is considered a "superfood".
The thing I really appreciate about it is the fact that it's a whole grain. It does as much good for your body as brown rice or any other grain--but takes only minutes to cook, and is much easier to digest. It cooks in the same style and timeframe as white rice--and has just as many delicious variations. Quinoa is also a complete protein by itself--no legume needed to complete it, and no meat or animal products necessary, which is really good for vegetarians. I'm still introducing it and hoping my kids will take to it, but new foods take time. I love it, it has a wonderful flavor--nutty, and a bit al dente as long as you don't overcook it.
Tonight I made a very basic Quinoa Pilaf that took no time at all.
Quinoa Pilaf
1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock
1/2 cup water
1/2 cup aromatic vegetables(chopped onion, diced red bell pepper, finely grated carrot, celery, garlic) of your choice
2 tbsp olive oil
salt and pepper
parsley and/or parmesan cheese to taste
Sweat vegetables in oil with salt and pepper for 5-7 minutes, til soft. Add quinoa, stir to coat, cook one minute. Add liquid, bring to boil, reduce to bare simmer, cover and cook about 20 minutes, til liquid is evaporated and grains are tender and split. Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkling of parmesan if desired. Serves 6 generously.
Nutrition Info--Calories per serving: 148 Fat Grams 6.2 Protein 4 g Fiber 2g Carbs 19g


2 comments:
Very nice dish;)
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Thanks! Glad you tried it--thanks for reading, I am still getting the hang of this.
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