What Is Quinoa and What Should You Do With It?
Quinoa is pronounced KEEN-wah. It's an ancient
plant which originated in the Andean region of Ecuador, Bolivia, Columbia and
Peru. It was said to be cultivated 3,000-4,000 years ago and maybe even before
that. Besides the interesting ancient origin, the plant is a very healthy food.
It not only provides a balance of nine amino acids, but it is a complete
protein, which is not common of grains. It is also a good source of fiber and
iron.
The main kinds of quinoa are red, black and
white. While some people think there are definite differences in the way these
types taste, many others think they taste the same or similar. As to taste, you
will have to be the judge of that. Color on the other hand may play a bigger
role in type of quinoa you choose.
The first step in cooking quinoa would be to
rinse it. It is optional whether or not you want to rinse your quinoa. While
most quinoa in the US is prewashed, it is naturally covered in a coating of
saponins which protects it from predators in the wild, but is bitter. To rinse
the quinoa coat with water, swish it around and then drain it in a mesh
strainer or one with very small holes. Quinoa cooks like most rice- 2 cups of
water to 1 cup of quinoa. Boil the water, add quinoa. When it boils again turn
the burner down to a medium heat. Cook about 15-20 minutes stirring once in a
while. Fluff it when is done
After making quinoa from scratch there are so
many things you can do with it. There any many recipes for quinoa dishes out
there. And if you are feeling more adventurous you can experiment and make up
your own quinoa dishes. Some ideas for quinoa dishes or dishes you can add
quinoa too are salads, soups, oatmeal and other hot cereals. Quinoa can be used
like rice and can be pared with anything you would put rice with. If you don't
want to make quinoa from scratch there are various quinoa products at
supermarkets or health food stores. Some of these are: pasta, cereal, burgers,
chips, smoothies, and cookies. There are many rice and bean mixes that have
quinoa added. There is also quinoa flour you can use to make bake goods.
Knowing more about the origins and health
benefits of quinoa is interesting. The health benefits could help you live a
healthier life. Now you have options. Maybe you'll start with a premade dish
made with quinoa like quinoa chips or the popular quinoa with oatmeal, or maybe
you'll start creating your own quinoa salads filled with colorful vegetables,
so much nutrition, and thousands of years of history.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/expert/H._M._Spencer/1966823
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