While technically a seed, quinoa is referred to as the “super grain”. It is high in a number of nutrients, and is known as one of the healthiest foods one can get. It was only available in health stores when it first became popular, but one can easily buy it now in groceries all year long.
Quinoa Nutrition Facts
Being a complete protein, quinoa has all nine essential amino acids. It also contains calcium, iron, potassium, vitamin E, zinc, selenium, tryptophan, manganese, magnesium, selenium, lignans, fiber, copper and phosphorous. Imagine a cup of quinoa containing eight grams protein, which is double the amount found in other grains. Some of the health benefits one enjoys from eating quinoa regularly includes weight control and reduced risk of diabetes and heart disease. Remember that diabetes can be genetic, and eating a healthy diet would greatly help if you are a diabetes high- risk.
Quinoa is not difficult to cook, and it’s just a lot like cooking rice. Cooked quinoa can be used for a number of dishes, whether its for a salad; added to soup or mixed with vegetables.
To cook quinoa, you need to start by soaking and rinsing it in water. When you rinse, place the quinoa in a strainer and rub the seeds together. Rinsing the quinoa is important, as it may be bitter otherwise. When it comes to the actual cooking, remember 2:1. Always two parts of water to one part quinoa. Just place the quinoa and the water in a pot, bring to a boil, turn the heat to the lowest setting and wait for the quinoa to absorb the water.
Aside from the procedure above, you can also make roasted quinoa for ice cream or yogurt topping. Simply dry roast it on a skillet for about five minutes (with medium- low heat), or until they’re brown. This would enhance the quinoa’s nutty flavor, and would surely make a hit with the kids.