Quinoa is a staple in my kitchen! I love its sweet taste and texture. It is a delicious gluten-free whole grain with fiber and is one of the most protein-rich foods we can eat, containing all 9 essential amino acids (I just found that out myself!). This basic recipe is a no fuss, full-proof, always perfectly cooked, not mushy (very important!), fluffy, yummy whole grain side dish. It takes all of 8 minutes to get on the table! If you have some extra in the fridge (it keeps well–no clumps!), you will want to make the Quinoa Kale & Corn Salad with fresh mint–so tasty. I also like to serve my Chicken Fricassée over it. The options are limitless!
I like to use Bob’s Red Mills Quinoa (click here to see package and nutrition facts)
Basic Quinoa
Quinoa contains sweet taste and texture. It is gluten-free and one of the most protein-rich foods we can eat, containing all 9 essential amino acids. It takes all of 8 minutes to get on the table.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa dry
- 1 1/3 cups water
Instructions
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Bring the water to a boil in a small saucepan
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Add the dry quinoa, stir once and cook, uncovered for exactly 6 minutes.
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Turn off the stove (don’t worry if it doesn’t look completely cooked yet—that’s OK at this point!) and cover for 2 minutes.
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Stir with a fork to fluff up and serve.
Wondering how soaking the grains before might change the amount of water and time to cook.
Hi Cheri, I don’t know but you don’t need to presoak the quinoa.
Hi Catherine,
We made your basic quinoa tonight and it was so simple. When it was ready we added sautéed peppers, onions, mushrooms and a some spices. We were very happy with how it turned out.
Thanks for a great side dish.
Paula
Yay Paula!! I am delighted to hear it!!