How to cook quinoa

Rinsing the Quinoa

Before cooking, it's essential to rinse your quinoa thoroughly. Quinoa is naturally coated in saponins, which can give it a bitter taste. Rinsing removes these saponins.

How to rinse: Place the quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water for about 1-2 minutes, until the water runs clear. Be sure to agitate the quinoa with your fingers to ensure all the grains are rinsed.

Ratio of Quinoa to Water (or Broth)

The ideal ratio for cooking quinoa is 1 part quinoa to 2 parts liquid. You can use water, vegetable broth, or chicken broth for added flavor. For example, if you're cooking 1 cup of quinoa, use 2 cups of liquid.

Using broth will impart a richer flavor to the quinoa, making it more versatile for savory dishes.

Cooking on the Stovetop

Step 1: Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and your chosen liquid (water or broth). Add a pinch of salt.

Step 2: Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.

Step 3: Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as it will release steam and affect the cooking process.

Step 4: Rest: After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 5 minutes. This allows the quinoa to fully absorb the remaining liquid and become fluffy.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve: After resting, fluff the quinoa with a fork. This separates the grains and prevents them from clumping together. Your quinoa is now ready to be served!

Cooking in a Rice Cooker

A rice cooker can also be used to cook quinoa. Rinse the quinoa, add it to the rice cooker with the appropriate amount of water (1 part quinoa to 2 parts water), and turn it on. Once the rice cooker switches to the 'warm' setting, let the quinoa sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Cooking in an Instant Pot

Cooking quinoa in an Instant Pot is a quick and convenient method.

Instructions: Rinse the quinoa, add it to the Instant Pot with the appropriate amount of water (1 part quinoa to 2 parts water), and secure the lid. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute, followed by a 10-minute natural pressure release. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Seasoning and Flavor Variations

Once cooked, quinoa can be seasoned in various ways to suit your taste.

Savory: Add herbs like parsley, cilantro, or thyme. Toss with roasted vegetables, beans, or a vinaigrette.

Sweet: Serve with fruit, nuts, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. You can also cook quinoa in milk (instead of water) for a creamy breakfast porridge.