Fluffy Quinoa Made Simple | 3 Different Techniques

Quinoa has become one of the most popular health ingredients in the world. Learning how to cook it has many benefits, from adding it to Salmon Croquettes for added protein and texture to a Crab Salad. Quinoa has no limits, only your imagination.

I will teach how to cook perfect quinoa using three different cooking methods. Each working very well.

What Is Quinoa?

Quinoa, pronounced "keen-wah," is a seed harvested from a type of herbaceous plant related to spinach. Despite being cooked and eaten as a grain, quinoa is botanically not a grain but rather a pseudocereal due to the way it's used and its nutritional profile. It's been a staple food in South American cultures for centuries, known for its nutty flavor and delicate texture.

Quinoa You Should I Buy

You'll find different varieties of quinoa, each with its unique color, flavor, and texture.

• White quinoa: Has a soft, fluffy texture when cooked and the most delicate flavor.
• Red quinoa: Holds its shape well when cooked, making it ideal for salads and side dishes, and has a slightly more earthy flavor than the white variety.
• Black quinoa: Has an earthy, sweet flavor and a slightly crunchy texture once cooked.
• Tricolor quinoa: A mix of white, red, and black quinoa, providing a balanced flavor and appearance in dishes.

When shopping for quinoa, look for a product that's clean and free of debris. Organic varieties often have higher standards.

Preparing and Cook Quinoa

Basic Stovetop Cooking Method

Ingredients:

• 1 cup quinoa
• 2 cups water or broth
• Pinch of salt

Instructions:

1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water. Use a fine mesh strainer and rub the seeds with your fingers to ensure you've removed the saponins.
2. Add the rinsed quinoa, water or broth, and salt to a saucepan.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer.
4. Cover and cook until the liquid is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
6. Use a fork to mix, then serve your fluffy quinoa.

When it comes to water ratios, a good rule of thumb for standard, unrinsed, and non-soaked quinoa is 2 cups water for every 1 cup of quinoa. For soaked and drained quinoa, you may reduce the water slightly, as it will have absorbed some during soaking.

Cook Quinoa In a Microwave

For a fast-fix, the microwave is your friend. Here's how:

1. Place 1 cup of quinoa and 2 cups of water in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Microwave on high for 6 minutes, then stir.
3. Continue microwaving in 2-minute intervals until the water is absorbed, stirring between each interval.
4. Cover and rest for a few minutes, then fluff the cooked quinoa and serve.

Cooking Quinoa In a Rice Cooker

Using a rice cooker is a set-and-forget method that yields consistent results.

1. Rinse your quinoa well under cold water.
2. Place 1 cup of quinoa in the rice cooker with 2 cups of water or broth.
3. Close the lid and set the cooker to the white rice setting (if it has one).
4. Once the cooker indicates the quinoa is done, allow it to steam for 5-10 minutes.
5. Use a fork to mix, then serve your fluffy quinoa while still warm.

Cook Quinoa In an Instant Pot

If you love the convenience of pressure cooking, the Instant Pot is perfect for cooking quinoa:

1. Rinse your quinoa under cold water thoroughly.
2. For every cup of quinoa, add 1.25 cups of water or broth to the Instant Pot.
3. Close the lid and set the vent to "Sealing."
4. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
5. Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure by moving the valve to "Venting."
6. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and serve.

These ingredients do/don't stand up well to freezing for X days/weeks/months.

Top Tip

Don't overthink it. Everyone's stovetop cooks a little differently. Make sure to check the quinoa after 10 minutes, gauging the amount of water that has cooked off. If it cooks off too fast, add a bit more water and reduce the temperature.

Watch How To Make:

Favorite Quinoa Recipes

Quinoa Chicken Salad | Easy Gourmet Recipe

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Quinoa isn't just for savory dishes - it's a star player in sweet treats and beverages as well. Here are a few simple recipes to get you started:

• Quinoa Breakfast Bowl: Top cooked quinoa with your choice of milk, fresh or dried fruit, nuts, and a drizzle of honey for a hearty and nutritious start to your day.
• Quinoa Salad: Mix cooked quinoa with diced veggies, a zesty dressing, and your favorite protein for a light and satisfying meal.
• Quinoa Burgers: Combine cooked quinoa with beans, spices, and a binding agent, form into patties, and pan-fry for a delicious vegetarian burger alternative.
• Quinoa Pudding: Similar to rice pudding, cook quinoa in sweetened milk and add vanilla and cinnamon for a tasty dessert.