How to Perfectly Boil Quinoa
Boiled Quinoa forms the basis of so many dishes, savoury or sweet. Hence, it's important to get the texture right and not mushy. Sharing with you my reliable recipe for perfectly boiled quinoa that ensures fluffy grains every time.
Ingredients
- 1cupquinoa
- 2cupswater
- 1/2tspsalt (optional)
- 1/2tspneutral oil (optional)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
57.1kcal (2.86%)
Protein
2.0g (4.06%)
Carbs
9.9g (3.59%)
Sugars
0.4g (0.8%)
Healthy Fat
0.8g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
How to make How to Perfectly Boil Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa under cold running water in a fine mesh sieve to remove its natural coating, saponins, which can make it taste bitter.
Soak the washed quinoa in water for about 30 minutes. After soaking, drain and discard the soaking water.
Combine 1 cup of soaked quinoa, 2 cups of water, a pinch of salt, and a dash of oil (if using) in a medium saucepan or wok.
Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil over medium-high heat.
Once it starts boiling, reduce the flame to low, cover with a lid, and let it cook gently for about 15 minutes.
The quinoa is done when the germ starts to pop and unfurl at the edges — it will appear as tiny 'tails.'
Turn off the flame and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to absorb any excess water.
Remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Your perfectly boiled quinoa is now ready to serve!
Nutrition
Protein: ≈ 8 grams — a complete protein with all nine essential amino acids. Fiber: ≈ 5 grams — supports healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full. Healthy Carbohydrate: ≈ 39 grams — slow-release energy. Other nutrients: Rich in manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, folate, and iron. Gluten-free: Naturally free from gluten — a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Fiber: ≈ 5 grams — supports healthy digestion and keeps you feeling full.
Healthy Carbohydrate: ≈ 39 grams — slow-release energy.
Other nutrients: Rich in manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, folate, and iron.
Gluten-free: Naturally free from gluten — a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Nutrition (per serving)
Nutrition (per serving)
Calories
57.1kcal (2.86%)
Protein
2.0g (4.06%)
Carbs
9.9g (3.59%)
Sugars
0.4g (0.8%)
Healthy Fat
0.8g
Unhealthy Fat
0.1g
% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet
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Tips & Tricks
The amount of water required can vary slightly depending on the quality or variety of quinoa, or even the brand you’re using.
It’s a good idea to start with 2 cups of water and adjust in future batches if you find your quinoa is too wet or too dry.
Soaking and thoroughly rinsing quinoa helps to remove saponins, the naturally occurring compounds that can impart a bitter taste.
Letting it rest after cooking lets the steam evenly distribute, yielding fluffier grains.
You can use your boiled quinoa for a variety of dishes like salads, as a side with saute vegetables, for stuffed bell peppers and even for a fruity breakfast bowl.
FAQS
Why should I rinse quinoa before cooking?
Rinsing quinoa removes its natural coating, saponins, which can make it taste bitter.
How can I tell when quinoa is done cooking?
Quinoa is done when the germ starts to pop and unfurl at the edges, appearing as tiny 'tails.'
Can I adjust the water quantity for cooking quinoa?
Yes, the amount of water can vary slightly depending on the quinoa's quality or variety. Start with 2 cups and adjust in future batches.
Why is it important to let quinoa rest after cooking?
Letting quinoa rest after cooking allows the steam to evenly distribute, resulting in fluffier grains.
Is quinoa gluten-free?
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
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Ritu Nanda
(@no1cookingbyritu)
“Exploring the science of deliciousness!” I invite all you wonderful food lovers to join me on a culinary journey as I delve into new wholesome recipes and baking adventures. As a content creator and physicist,I combine my love for science and culinary arts to share mouth-watering food ideas with you. Let’s cook, bake, and enjoy the wonders of food together! “Exploring the science of deliciousness!” I invite all you wonderful food lovers to join me on a culinary journey as I delve into new wholesome...
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