Quinoa has become a popular side dish here, second only to rice. While my family still loves rice, they often ask for quinoa now because it’s more nutrient-dense. A simple method makes a big difference in flavor, and I’m excited to share my preferred — and, truthfully, best — way to prepare quinoa.
The photos show multicolored quinoa, but regular quinoa tastes the same. Use whatever you have on hand. One cup of cooked quinoa contains about 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber, compared with roughly 4 grams of protein and less than 1 gram of fiber in rice. Swapping quinoa for rice is an easy way to boost protein and fiber in your meals.
More High-Protein and High-Fiber Meal Ideas
More High-Protein and High-Fiber Meal Ideas- Cowboy Stew
- Creamy White Chicken Chili
- Sheet Pan Fajitas
- Instant Pot Lentils with Chicken and Sweet Potatoes
- Zucchini and Beef Taco Skillet
- Eggroll in a Bowl
Step-by-step Pictures for how to make the best quinoa
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Make the Best Quinoa
Frequently Asked Questions about How to Make the Best QuinoaHow do you cook quinoa?
On the stovetop, quinoa is cooked using a 2:1 water-to-quinoa ratio. Use a pot with a lid so the quinoa can simmer covered.
What ratio of water to quinoa do you need to cook quinoa?
Use two parts liquid to one part quinoa. For example, two cups of water for one cup of quinoa.
Do you boil the water before adding the Quinoa?
Yes. Bring the liquid to a boil, stir in the quinoa, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Can you cook quinoa in the INSTANT POT?
Can you cook quinoa in the INSTANT POT?Yes. In the Instant Pot use a 1:1 ratio of water to quinoa. For this method use 1 cup water and 1 cup quinoa, set high pressure for 1 minute, then allow a natural release for 15 minutes.
Is Quinoa a Grain or a Legume?
Quinoa is a grain.
How long can Quinoa be stored in the Refrigerator?
Cooked quinoa keeps in the refrigerator for up to five days when stored in an airtight container.
Can you freeze Quinoa?
Yes. Freeze cooked quinoa in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months.
CHEF’S TOOLS:
CHEF’S TOOLS:- 2-quart pot with lid
- Instant Pot (optional)
- Garlic press
- Citrus juicer
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Substitute rice for Quinoa in these Recipes
- 1/4–1/2 cup yellow onion, diced small
- 2 cloves garlic, crushed or finely chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 3 cups chicken stock (or 3 cups water + 3 tsp chicken bouillon)
- 1 1/2 cups quinoa
- In a 2-quart pot with a lid, sauté the onion and garlic in olive oil until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the chicken stock (or water and bouillon) and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, stir in the lemon juice and quinoa. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and fluff the quinoa with a fork.
- Serve and enjoy.
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