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Quinoa

Quinoa, a versatile and nutritious pseudocereal, has gained significant popularity in recent years for its myriad of health benefits and easy preparation. Originally from the Andean region of South America, quinoa has been cultivated for thousands of years and was highly valued by Incan civilizations. Rich in proteins, essential amino acids, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, quinoa is a gluten-free staple that can be incorporated into various diets. It has a slightly nutty flavor and fluffy texture, making it a great substitute for rice, pasta, or other grains in a wide range of dishes.
#10
IN GRAINS & RICE
368
CAL / 100G
$0.26
AVG / OZ
quinoa
76%
CARBS
7%
FAT
17%
PROTEIN
Quinoa FAQ
Many people often face confusion regarding the proper preparation and culinary usage of quinoa. It's important to rinse quinoa prior to cooking to remove the outer coating, called saponin, which can otherwise impart a bitter taste. Another common mistake is using the wrong ratio of water to quinoa or cooking it for too long, resulting in mushy quinoa. Quinoa can be used as a base for salads, added to soups, or served as a side dish and can easily replace rice or other grains in most recipes. It's also great for creating quinoa burgers or making fluffy quinoa pancakes. To get the most out of quinoa, consider toasting it before cooking, this will elevate its flavors. And remember that it can also be used in sweet recipes like puddings, oat bars, or breakfast bowls. Always remember that quinoa expands as it cooks, so a little goes a long way. Many people aren't aware that quinoa is a complete protein, which is a rarity among plant foods. It contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies can't produce on their own. So it's an excellent choice for vegetarians, vegans, and those simply looking to diversify their proteins sources.
How do I cook quinoa perfectly?
My quinoa always comes out mushy. Where am I going wrong?
Do I need to rinse quinoa before cooking?
What can I use quinoa for?
Can I use quinoa as a substitute for rice?
Is quinoa gluten-free?
What is the nutritional value of quinoa?
What is the best way to flavor quinoa?
I've heard quinoa can be used in sweet recipes. Is this true?
Can I eat quinoa if I'm on a vegan or vegetarian diet?
Expiration & Storage Tips
When does quinoa expire?
Unopened quinoa can last up to 2-3 years if stored properly, even past its best-before date. Once you've opened the package, you should consume it within 6 months. You can also store cooked quinoa in the refrigerator, where it will last for 5-7 days. If you choose to freeze cooked quinoa, it can last up to 8-12 months.
How do you tell if quinoa is bad?
If your quinoa has gone bad, you'll notice a few signs. First, if there's a change in color or smell, it could indicate spoilage. Fresh quinoa has a slight nutty smell while spoiled quinoa may develop a sour, rather unpleasant smell. Additionally, if there's any visible mold or bugs in the package, the quinoa should not be consumed. Finally, cooked quinoa that is spoiled may look dried out or have a leftover taste even after re-heating.
Tips for storing quinoa to extend shelf life
• Store the quinoa in a cool, dry place away from sunlight. A pantry or a dark cabinet would be perfect. • Use an airtight container for both uncooked and cooked quinoa. This keeps it from absorbing moisture and odors from other foods. • If you want to extend the shelf life of cooked quinoa, consider freezing it. Just make sure to let it cool completely before you put it in the freezer. • Always check for signs of spoilage before cooking or consuming quinoa.
EXPIRES WITHIN
2 - 3.6
YEARS
Equivalents
Health Info
Macros
80g
CARBS
7g
FAT
17g
PROTEIN
Allowed on these diets
LOW FAT
HIGH CALCIUM
VEGETARIAN
MEDITERRANEAN
LOW CARB
VEGAN
LACTOSE FREE
GLUTEN FREE
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