With its fluffy and delicate texture this sweet and nutty flavoured pseudo cereal has become more and more popular over the last few years. It is incredibly healthy, tasty and can be used in all kinds of dishes, sweet and savoury.

Plus it is super easy to prepare. But I have realised lately, after talking about how awesome this stuff is, that there are still a lot of people out there who just have no idea on how to prepare it at home. And we all know how much they charge for this trendy grain when eating out at your local café. So I decided to write this post with an easy step-by-step process to show you just how easy it really is. Enjoy.

WHY YOU SHOULD EAT THIS STUFF

It is high in protein, twice that of rice, and contains all nine amino acids. It is also high in iron, magnesium, vitamins B1, B2 and B6 and is higher in fibre than most other grains. It is naturally wheat free, making it a great gluten free alternative. And it is Low GI. Check out our page on Quinoa Nutrition if you’d like to know more about the benefits!

HOW TO COOK IT

STEP 1. Place ½ cup of quinoa into a mesh strainer and rinse thoroughly with water under tap. This step is important as quinoa has a natural coating on it called saponin that makes the grain taste bitter and soapy if left on making it not so tasty.

STEP 2. Place 1 cup of water or broth into small saucepan along with the rinsed quinoa. Bring to the boil then cover with a lid. Simmer for about 12-15 min until all the liquid is absorbed.
You can also add salt or herbs or seasonings at this point.

STEP 3. Take of heat and let stand for a further 5 min with the lid still on then fluff with fork.

STEP 4. EAT… the best step. Why not try this quick and healthy QUINOA AND CILANTRO SALAD.