How to cook quinoa to perfection

If you are trying to eat healthy, you may want to try quinoa. It is a delicious meal, which has been called “super food” by experts from around the world. It has also been called “supergrain”, although it is not actually a grain. Rather, it is a small seed that is related to plants like beets, chard, and spinach. Both the seed and leaves of quinoa can be eaten, although only the seed is widely available.

Cooking quinoa is very simple and can be done by anyone who knows how to cook rice. In fact, cooking quinoa is much easier than cooking rice because quinoa doesn’t stick like rice does.

There are several methods you can learn if you want to know how to cook quinoa to perfection. One thing to remember is that it should be rinsed well before cooking. Once you’ve rinsed your quinoa, here are three cooking methods you can try.

Cooking on the stove

While most recipes for cooking quinoa call for a one to two ratio of seed to liquid, I think a much better ratio is one to one and a half. Bring the quinoa and liquid to a simmer then reduce to a simmer. Cook covered for 25 minutes or until water is absorbed. Let it stay covered for an additional five minutes. Stir and serve.

Cooking for salad

I like to use a slightly different method when cooking quinoa to use in a quinoa salad. It is a bit more complicated, but it produces a seed that is perfect for salads because it is a bit firmer. It also keeps well in the refrigerator for a few days.

Use one part quinoa and two parts liquid. Bring the liquid to a boil and add the quinoa. Boil, uncovered, for ten minutes. Remove from heat and drain the quinoa in a fine metal strainer. Rinse with cold water. Bring fresh water to a boil in a pot and place the quinoa on top in the strainer. Make sure the strainer is not submerged in water. Place a clean tea towel over the quinoa and cover with a lid. Steam the quinoa for 10 minutes. Be careful of steam when removing the lid and dishcloth.

Cooking quinoa in the oven

Most people don’t realize that you can cook quinoa in the oven to use as a crunchy topping for yogurt and fruit. To do this, you will want to preheat the oven to 375. Combine 1 cup of quinoa with 1 tablespoon of agave nectar and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until lightly golden. You will need to stir the quinoa every five minutes.