Voltage Articles

Cooking quinoa is new to many people.  If you have never cooked it before, you may be wondering about the best way to get started.  Here are some general guidelines on how to cook quinoa.

The first step to cooking quinoa is to rinse it.  Sometimes quinoa that is purchased in a box is pre-rinsed.  If the box your quinoa is in states that it has already been rinsed you can skip this step.  If you do not rinse quinoa, it will remain covered in a bitter and soapy substance known as saponin.  Saponin can upset your stomach and cause your meal to taste terrible.  The process of rinsing quinoa is fast and easy.  Use warm water and rinse quinoa in a fine metal colander.  It is a good idea to rinse over a bowl because you know that the quinoa is done when the water is completely clear.

The stove is the most common way that quinoa is cooked in a quinoa recipe.  Quinoa is cooked in a two to one ratio between quinoa and liquid.  Bring it to a boil.  (You can add in salt if you wish.)  Simmer covered for between fifteen and eighteen minutes.  Allow your quinoa to remain covered for five minutes.

A steamer can also be used to cook your quinoa.  It will take twice as much cooking liquid as the amount of quinoa you are cooking.  It will take up to 20 minutes for the quinoa to fully absorb the liquid.  Quinoa can be cooked in many different liquids.  For savory dishes like stir fries, soups and salads you can cook your quinoa in either vegetable broth or chicken broth.  Some great options for breakfast quinoa dishes are apple juice, milk, or almond milk.  Experiment with quinoa!  It is a great way to improve your diet!