HISTORY OF QUINOA, FUN-FACTS, BENEFITS & RECIPE

by Green Habit

Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) is a versatile and nutritious grain that has been a staple food in South America for thousands of years. It is believed to have been first cultivated in the Andes Mountains in South America over 5000 years ago and was considered a sacred food by the ancient Incas.

Quinoa is a small, round seed that is packed with nutrients and has a mild, nutty flavor. It is a complete protein, which means it contains all of the essential amino acids needed for good health. Quinoa is also high in fiber, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and antioxidants.

There are many reasons to add quinoa to your diet. For starters, it is a gluten-free grain, making it a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance. Quinoa is also low in fat and calories, making it a great option for people who are watching their weight. Additionally, its high fiber content makes it filling and satisfying, which can help you eat less throughout the day.

Quinoa is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and stir-fries to soups and puddings. It can be cooked just like rice and can be used as a base for a variety of meals. It is also a great option for people who are looking for a healthier alternative to rice or pasta.

Here are a few fun facts about quinoa:

  1. Quinoa was declared "the International Year of Quinoa" by the United Nations in 2013.
  2. Quinoa is not a grain, but rather a seed.
  3. Quinoa has a natural coating called saponin, which can make it taste bitter if not removed before cooking.
  4. There are over 120 different varieties of quinoa, each with its own unique flavor and texture.
  5. Quinoa is considered a "superfood" due to its high nutrient content.

In conclusion, quinoa is a delicious and nutritious grain that should be a staple in your diet. Whether you're looking for a gluten-free option, a healthy alternative to rice or pasta, or just a new ingredient to add to your meals, quinoa is a great option. So why not add a handful of quinoa to your next meal and start enjoying all the health benefits it has to offer!

 

WHY SHOULD WE CONSUME QUINOA ?

Quinoa is a highly nutritious grain that is a great addition to a healthy diet. Here are some reasons why you should consider eating quinoa:

High in Protein: Quinoa is one of the few plant-based foods that is a complete protein, meaning it contains all of the essential amino acids that your body needs. This makes it a great choice for vegetarians and vegans who are looking to boost their protein intake.

Rich in Nutrients: Quinoa is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, magnesium, potassium, and B vitamins. It is also high in fiber, which can help promote digestive health and regulate blood sugar levels.

Gluten-Free: Quinoa is a gluten-free grain, making it a great option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.

Versatile Ingredient: Quinoa can be used in a variety of recipes, from breakfast dishes to salads and main courses. It is also a great alternative to rice and pasta, and can be used in place of these grains in many recipes.

Easy to Cook: Quinoa is quick and easy to cook, and can be ready in just 15-20 minutes. It is also highly versatile, and can be seasoned and flavored in a variety of ways to suit your taste preferences.

Overall, quinoa is a highly nutritious and versatile grain that offers numerous health benefits. So, if you're looking to boost your nutrient intake and add a delicious and healthy ingredient to your diet, quinoa is a great choice.

 

 

 

Indian Quinoa Pilaf:

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Green Habit White quinoa
  • 1 tbsp ghee or cold-pressed oil
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup of chickpea (as per taste optional)
  • 1 tsp ginger, minced
  • 1 tsp cumin seeds
  • 1 tsp coriander powder
  • 1/2 tsp turmeric powder
  • 1/2 tsp garam masala
  • 1 cup vegetable broth or water
  • Pink Rock Salt, to taste
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the Green Habit quinoa well and drain.
  2. Heat the ghee or oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the garlic, ginger, cumin seeds, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and garam masala to the pan. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
  4. Add the quinoa to the pan and stir to combine with the spices.
  5. Add the broth or water and salt to the pan, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender.
  6. Stir in the frozen peas and diced carrots into the quinoa. Cover and cook for another 5 minutes, until the vegetables are warmed through.
  7. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer to a serving dish. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot.

This Indian-inspired quinoa pilaf is a flavorful and filling dish that can be served as a side or main course. The spices, vegetables, and herbs make it a delicious and nutritious option for any meal. Enjoy!

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