What is it?

Known as the “mother grain” of the Incan empire, quinoa (pronounced “keen-wah”), is a small, flat seed. It’s a staple for millions in South America and is available in a gorgeous array of colors, from golden-tan to brick-red. In Bolivia, Ecuador, and Chile, where the plant grows abundantly, it has been eaten continuously for 5,000 years. (In the Incan language, the word quinua means “mother grain.”)

Quinoa, which is gluten-free, is a powerhouse of nutrition. It’s called a “superfood” because it’s a complete protein that contains all of the essential amino acids. It’s also a good source of minerals and fiber, as well as iron, zinc, potassium, calcium, and vitamin E.

But how does it taste? It’s a mild, slightly sweet grain with hints of corn, nuts, and grass. But what makes quinoa really interesting is its soft-but-crunchy texture. When cooked, the germ falls away and retains an ever-so-slight crunch, while the seed itself becomes tender and light.

In recent years, quinoa has also become a Passover staple for many observant Jews. Since it is not truly a grain, it isgenerally considered kosher for Passover, as long as it is processed in a facility that does not also process other forbidden grains.

Despite its moniker, quinoa is not actually a grain. Unlike wheat, barley, corn, and rye, which comprise both seed and fruit, quinoa is seed only. It’s also not a member of the grass family, from which most grains are harvested. It’s more closely related to beets, spinach, and even tumbleweeds. Yet quinoa is considered a grain in the culinary world because it’s cooked and eaten just like grains and has a similar nutrient profile. Once cooked, the quinoa becomes translucent, and the white germ partially detaches, appearing like a white-spiraled tail.

Don’t have it?

Substitute bulgur wheat or couscous, though they don’t have the same texture.

How to choose:

Look for quinoa in natural-foods stores or well-stocked supermarkets. It’s a staple at stores with bulk bins.

How to prep:

First,rinse it well. This is an important step to rid the quinoa of its coating of saponin, a bitter, soapy-tasting natural substance that protects the plants from insects. Most quinoa is processed to remove much of the saponin, so submersion and a good swish in a bowl of cool water is all it takes to finish the process. If the water appears very cloudy, keep rinsing in fresh water until the cloudiness is almost gone.

库克奎奴亚藜像赖斯:使用2:1液体-grain ratio. Bring the water to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook until the water is absorbed. Quinoa cooks in about 10 to 15 minutes, making it the fastest cooking grain out there. Fluff the quinoa well with a fork before serving.

How to store:

Store quinoa in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to a year.

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Recipes

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  Recipe

  Saffron, Quinoa, and Shrimp Salad

  Smoky paprika, golden saffron, Marcona almonds, and sherry vinegar give this main-course salad a Spanish spin.

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  Recipe

  Seared Scallops with Citrus Quinoa, Herbs, and Almonds

  Infused with bright, aromatic flavors and full of wonderfully contrasting textures, this dish offers excitement with every bite. Steaming the quinoa after simmering gives it a drier, fluffier texture.

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  Recipe

  Peruvian Quinoa Bowl with Grilled Steak and Vegetables

  Grilled steak and vegetables capture Latin barbecue flavors. Ponzu is a tangy Japanese citrus-and-soy sauce, which is a nod to the Japanese influences in Peruvian cuisine.

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  Recipe

  Spicy Thai Tofu Burgers

  Don’t hide this pretty, veggie-packed patty in a bun; serve it on a Thai-inspired salad of chopped lettuce tossed with bean sprouts, grated carrot, and chopped fresh mint and cilantro.…

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  Recipe

  Fiesta Quinoa Salad with Grilled Shrimp

  Studded with black beans, bell pepper, and corn, this colorful grain salad can also be paired with grilled halloumi or tofu for a vegetarian meal. Tasty at any temperature, it’s…

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  Recipe

  Quinoa and White Bean Burgers

  These crispy, mildly sweet patties are delicious with lightly dressed arugula.

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  Recipe

  Breakfast Quinoa

  Quinoa makes a soothing porridge, a perfect choice for a higher-protein breakfast. Top it with your favorite berries, nuts or fruit.