Introduction

Quinoa is a healthy, hearty seed with a pleasant texture that has become an increasingly popular food choice in the last few years. It’s not a grain at all – it’s related to spinach and other leafy greens! And because of its high protein content, quinoa can often be used as an alternative to rice or pasta.

Do you want to learn how to cook quinoa in a rice cooker? It’s straightforward! In this blog post, we will walk you through the steps. Let’s get started!

What Is Quinoa?

Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah) is a seed from one of the oldest cultivated crops. The plant’s name comes from the Quechua word for “three seeds.” It is native to South America and produces a delicious, nutritious seed high in protein and fiber, making it a healthy food choice. Quinoa has been cultivated in South America for over 4,000 years.

Where Does It Come From?

Quinoa is native to the Andes Mountains in South America. It grows best at high altitudes, and its cultivation has been performed by the Incas, who called it “the mother grain.” In pre-Columbian times, it was so valued that only the priests and nobility could consume it.

Since 2010, health enthusiasts worldwide have acquired a taste for quinoa. There are many ways to make quinoa. You can use quinoa instead of rice or pasta. Quinoa can also be mixed with beans, vegetables, and fruit for a delicious casserole or side dish. Quinoa can also be used for bread and pastries.

Nutritional Benefits Of Quinoa

1. Quinoa Has A High Protein Content

Quinoa is one of the few vegetarian foods that are high in protein. It has a protein quality comparable to meat, eggs, and milk. This quality makes quinoa an excellent food for vegetarians and vegans who are concerned about getting enough protein in their diets. It also makes quinoa a good substitute for those who want to reduce their meat consumption.

2. Quinoa Is High In Fiber

Another great benefit of quinoa is its amount of soluble and insoluble dietary fiber. Fiber slows digestion, making it more filling and helping you feel fuller longer than foods with less fiber.

3. Quinoa Is High In Iron And Magnesium

Because it contains a natural form of folic acid and other B vitamins, quinoa is an excellent source of iron. Iron is essential for healthy blood production, tissue growth, and energy maintenance.

4. Quinoa Is High In Calcium

Quinoa also contains calcium. Calcium helps keep bones strong and healthy and acts as a catalyst for bone-building hormones in the body.

5. Quinoa Tastes Excellent!

Quinoa’s nutty taste makes it a fun addition to many dishes and recipes, from breakfast to dessert!

6. Quinoa Is Rich In Protein

It can be used as a complete protein substitute for those who want to reduce their meat consumption or those who are vegetarian or vegan.

7. Quinoa is GMO-free

Like most other seed crops, quinoa is not genetically modified. It is a product of nature and a super-food with many health benefits.

How To Cook Quinoa In A Rice Cooker

1. Rinse and Drain the Quinoa

Quinoa has a bitter coating that can taste terrible if not removed. So, we always rinse quinoa before making it. Be sure to use a wire mesh sieve or tea strainer and rub vigorously under running water for about 30 seconds to clean the bitter residue off your quinoa seeds. Then, drain it nicely by placing the sieve over a bowl and pressing it down with a spoon to force out as much water as possible.

2. Measure the Water

It’s now time to add two cups of water. The quinoa seeds will absorb all the water during cooking, so ensure you use enough. You can always add more water when cooking, but you can’t take out extra water once it’s in the cooker!

3. Rinse and Drain the Rice

Next, add one cup of rice to your rice cooker. Be sure to rinse the rice before adding it to your cooker! This is because some rice brands can have a dusty outer layer that must be rinsed before cooking. This step is unnecessary if you’re cooking plain white rice without added ingredients!

4. Add the Other Ingredients

In addition to the quinoa and rice, add the oil and salt. You can also add some spices – we like adding a dash of turmeric or cumin for flavor.

5. Add Water and Turn On Your Rice Cooker

Before you start cooking, ensure your cooker has enough water to cook your food correctly. Turn on your cooker with the right ingredients: quinoa, rice, salt/oil/spices, and 2 cups water.

6. Cover the Rice Cooker

Now, the quinoa and rice will cook in your cooker. You should be able to hear it popping or boiling in there. If you’re making this recipe with a rice cooker that isn’t digital, check it after 20 minutes to ensure the liquid hasn’t all been absorbed by the rice and quinoa! When done, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains of rice and quinoa.

Dishes You Can Make With Quinoa:

1. Quinoa Pilaf

2. Quinoa Salad with Feta Cheese, Olives, and Herbs

3. Quinoa Pasta with Sausage and Creamy Balsamic Glaze

4. Quinoa Tabouleh Salad with Shaved Beets, Cucumber, and Almonds

5. Quinoa Plus Couscous Salad

6. Quinoa Hasselback Potato Fries (Vegetarian)

7. Quinoa Casserole with Caramelized Onion and Bacon

8. Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Waffles

Conclusion

The Incas used quinoa as an essential food. However, it is also a good source of protein and contains plenty of fiber, nutrients that help control blood sugar levels and reduce cholesterol. Quinoa is a valuable grain in your daily diet, not only for plant chemistry but also for its nutritional benefits. Try cooking one now!