Move over kale, there's a new superfood superstar in town.
Quinoa, an ancient grain that's pronounced like KEEN-wah, has become a modern-day sensation. Once an obscure ingredient found only in health food stores, it has skyrocketed in popularity, gracing the menus of trendy urban cafes and winning a spot on the family grocery list.
Quinoa’s popularity can be attributed to a number of factors: a growing interest in plant-based proteins, a surge in gluten-free diets and an increasing awareness of global cuisines. Nutrient-dense quinoa offers an easy way to add protein, omega-3 fatty acids and fiber to your diet, along with folate, magnesium, zinc and iron.
With its delightfully nutty taste and light texture, this versatile seed (yes, it's technically a seed even though it’s often referred to as a grain) absorbs the flavors of whatever it's cooked with, while still maintaining its own distinct character.
From vibrant salads to hearty main dishes, quinoa can be a wise swap for rice, and its subtle earthiness adds depth and intrigue to a wide variety of recipes. Whether you're a long-time quinoa enthusiast or a curious newcomer, get ready to explore the possibilities of this superfood that proves healthy eating doesn't have to sacrifice flavor. Here’s what you need to know about quinoa.
Cooking Quinoa
To prepare perfectly fluffy quinoa, start by rinsing one cup of quinoa seeds in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water to remove any bitterness. Add two cups of water or vegetable broth to a pot for every one cup of quinoa. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the quinoa seeds have become translucent. Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional five minutes to allow the quinoa to absorb any remaining moisture and become fluffy. Finally, uncover the pan and fluff the quinoa gently with a fork to serve alone or incorporate into one of the tasty quinoa recipes below.
White Quinoa, Red Quinoa or Black Quinoa?
You might be surprised to learn there are several varieties of quinoa to choose from, each featuring unique characteristics while offering the same elevated nutrition profile. White quinoa is the most commonly found; with a mild flavor and soft texture, it’s known for being the least bitter. Black quinoa is the crunchiest—and might require a few extra minutes to cook. Red quinoa is the middle sib, a little crunchier than white quinoa but less than black quinoa. Red quinoa’s eye-catching hue can be a colorful alternative for dishes where you want quinoa to be the star. Feel free to experiment with the different types in the quinoa recipes below.
Quinoa Recipes
TURKEY TACO SKILLET
Cook up a healthy fiesta in a flash with this flavorful and nutritious one-pan recipe that combines savory seasoned ground turkey, white quinoa, sweet corn and juicy tomatoes, all infused with the jolt of McCormick® Taco Seasoning Mix and smothered with melted cheese. Customize the finished dish to suit individual tastes, with toppings like diced avocado, chopped cilantro, sliced black olives and sour cream or Greek yogurt. This quick and easy skillet dinner is sure to please the entire family (including the cook!)
QUINOA SMASH BURGER
Delight the vegans in your crew with a hearty burger that’s much tastier than a frozen plant-based patty. This version combines quinoa with flaxseed for an extra punch of the protein, fiber and omega-3 for which quinoa is revered. But what’s a veggie burger without, well, veggies? You’ll add finely chopped red bell pepper and shredded carrot, then keep the health theme going with Salt Free Burger Business by Tabitha Brown Seasoning Mix. Serve the patty in a lettuce wrap or a gluten-free bun.
ASIAN QUINOA BOWL WITH STEAK AND BOK CHOY
While Asian-style bowls are often presented over a bed of rice, this recipe replaces the routine grain with nutrition-packed quinoa instead, adding a healthy and tasty twist to a familiar favorite. The crave-worthy recipe is infused with a bold but balanced blend of spices that includes the zesty essence of lime, savory umami of fish sauce and warmth of ginger.
CHORIZO CHILE POPPERS
This creative spin on the classic chile rellenos appetizer uses mild pickled peppers as a stand-in for the traditional roasted poblanos. You’ll blend Mexican chorizo sausage, McCormick Gourmet Ancho Chile Pepper, McCormick Chili Powder, garlic and cilantro with cooked quinoa and tomatoes for bite-sized party fare with a sweet heat.
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