Tuesday, July 29, 2008

Quin-what?


Quinoa (KEEN-wah) is a grain originally from South America. In fact, it was the Inca's main food. When I serve quinoa, most people mistake it for couscous. Unlike couscous (which is actually a wheat pasta), quinoa is a whole grain. Nutrient-dense and full of protein (10.5 grams per cooked cup), it is a great food for nursing moms and growing kids.

To cook quinoa:

1 c quinoa
Pinch of sea salt
1 3/4 c water

Rinse quinoa well with warm water and drain (it rinses off a bitter flavor in the coating). Place quinoa, salt, and water in a pot. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer 15-20 minutes until all the water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork before serving. Makes 2 1/2 - 3 cups. It is an excellent "first" food for babies 6 months and older when blended with water or breast milk.

3 comments:

FewMinute Wonders said...

Hi Julie,

I have this grain sitting in my cupboard from Trader Joe's will try this soon. thanks for sharing this recipe

La Madame Chapeau said...

Hello Julie :)
I couldn’t find time to drop in and say hi to you before.
T
hanks for the contact request, and it’s nice to know you.

Best wishes from Istanbul!
Banu

Kim taylor said...

Julie,
I'm always up for more quinoa recipes. Hey, did you know it helps increase breast milk supply? Not that you will need that again. :)
Kim

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