What's all the fuss about quinoa?

You’ve probably come across this little high protein-seed a lot lately! While once just a fringe ingredient for health-food fanatics, quinoa (pronounced ‘keen-wah’) has well and truly made its way into the mainstream.

What is it?

Often mistaken for a grain, quinoa is actually a seed.  Available in white, black and red, the seeds are the only known plant-based source of a complete protein. In short, they contain all the essential amino acids needed for growth and development.

In addition to its protein punch, quinoa is also very high in B vitamins, potassium, calcium, fibre, iron and vitamin E.

How do I prepare quinoa?

In its natural state, Quinoa seeds contain a layer of saponins, which give it a bitter taste. This can be removed by soaking and thoroughly rinsing your quinoa. For best results, we recommend soaking the seed overnight with enough water to cover. This will give you beautiful fluffy quinoa when cooked and will help prevent the quinoa from falling through the holes in your mixing basket.

If you’re short on time, just give the seeds a good wash under running water before cooking.  Many pre-packaged quinoa available from supermarkets have already been pre-washed for your convenience.

How do I cook it in my Thermomix?

Place 1L of cold water into TM bowl. Place 200 grams of quinoa (soaked overnight) into TM basket and put basket in place.

Steam Quinoa for 20 min/Varoma/speed 2. Fluff with a fork at the end. 

Then what do I do with it?

Part of quinoa’s popularity is because of its versatility.

Steamed quinoa adds a good nutritional boost to salads.

Use quinoa in risottos instead of rice to make a ‘quinotto’

Start your day with a warm bowl of quinoa porridge

Mill quinoa seeds in your Thermomix to make bread