How to Cook Quinoa
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
2 mins
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Cook Time
13 mins
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Additional Time
5 mins
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Total Time
20 mins
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Servings
4 people (makes 3 cups cooked quinoa)
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Calories
181 kcal
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Course
Side Dish
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Cuisine
South American
How to Cook Quinoa
Description
This method for cooking quinoa starts by thoroughly rinsing the quinoa under running water to remove its natural coating, which can be bitter. After draining, the quinoa is toasted briefly in a pan with butter or olive oil over medium heat. Toasting separates the grains and adds a golden color and slightly nutty flavor.
Water and salt are added and brought to a boil before reducing to a simmer, covering the pot. The quinoa cooks gently until the water is fully absorbed, typically 13 to 15 minutes, during which tiny spirals appear around each seed — an indicator of doneness. After cooking, letting the quinoa rest covered allows it to finish steaming and achieves a fluffy texture.
Fluffing with a fork before serving separates the grains for a light, airy consistency. This simple technique yields quinoa suitable for use as a side dish, salad base, or ingredient in various recipes requiring cooked grains.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1 Tbsp butter or extra light olive oil
- 2 cups water filtered
- 1/2 tsp salt fine sea salt
Instructions
- Rinse quinoa in a fine mesh sieve for at least 30 seconds then drain well.
- Place a large saucepan over medium heat and add 1 Tbsp butter or oil. Add drained quinoa and stir constantly until quinoa is toasted, the grains separate and turn golden, about 3 minutes.
- Add water and salt. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer until the liquid is absorbed, about 13-15 minutes. When it’s done, you’ll see tiny spirals curl around the seeds and check with a fork to ensure the water has evaporated all the way down to the bottom of the pot.
- Remove from heat and let it rest covered for another 5 minutes then fluff with a fork.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 4people (makes 3 cups cooked quinoa)
Amount Per Serving
Calories 181 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 181kcal | 9% |
| Carbs | 27g | |
| Protein | 6g | 12% |
| Fat | 5g | 8% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2g | 12% |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 1g | 5% |
| Trans Fat | 0.1g | 5% |
| Cholesterol | 8mg | 3% |
| Sodium | 321mg | 13% |
| Potassium | 240mg | 5% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 0.003g | 0% |
| Vitamin A | 93IU | 2% |
| Calcium | 25mg | 3% |
| Iron | 2mg | 11% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
5
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