Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- Salt (optional)
Instructions:
Rinse the Quinoa:
Rinse the quinoa under cold running water using a fine mesh strainer. Rinsing removes the natural bitter coating called saponin.
Combine Quinoa and Water:
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa, water or vegetable broth, and a pinch of salt if desired.
Bring to a Boil:
Place the saucepan over high heat and bring the water to a boil.
Reduce Heat and Simmer:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let the quinoa simmer. Simmer for about 15 minutes.
Check for Doneness:
After 15 minutes, check if the quinoa is done. It should be tender, with a slight spiral tail separating from the grain. If needed, you can continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Resting Period:
Turn off the heat and let the quinoa sit, covered, for about 5 minutes. This allows any remaining moisture to be absorbed and results in fluffier quinoa.
Fluff the Quinoa:
After the resting period, fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains.
Serve:
Your quinoa is now ready to be served as a side dish, added to salads, or used in various recipes.
Quinoa is a versatile grain that can be used in both savory and sweet dishes. You can also add herbs, spices, or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance the flavor. Additionally, quinoa can be cooked in a rice cooker for convenience, following the manufacturer’s instructions for grain-to-water ratio and cooking time.