Food of the Month: Quinoa (2024)

FAQs

What is the answer to quinoa? ›

Quinoa is a plant from South America grown as a crop on account of its edible seeds. It technically isn't a grain, but a pseudocereal classified as a whole grain that can be cooked and eaten in every way that rice and other grains can.

Studies have reported that consumption of one serving of quinoa (about 40 g) meets an important part of daily recommendations (RDA) for essential nutrients and health-improving compounds.

Quinoa is reported to be a complete protein, because it contains all nine of the essential amino acids (35, 37, 41); however, it is better described as “nearly complete,” because of limiting essential amino acid content.

Quinoa is a whole grain packed with nutrients, fiber, protein, and plant compounds.

Cooked quinoa comprises 21% carbohydrates, 14.6% protein, and 14.2% fat. One cup (185 grams) of cooked quinoa contains 222 calories.

Quinoa is rich in both fiber and protein, contains a much higher amount of other nutrients, and has a similar fluffy texture to the rice. A cup of quinoa contains twice more protein and about 5 g more fiber than white rice. Quinoa contains fewer calories and carbohydrates than white rice.

Allergy to other foods used as grains: Quinoa may cause an allergic reaction in people who are sensitive to foods used as grains, such as buckwheat, wheat, and rice. If you have allergies to grains, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before using quinoa.

Studies suggest quinoa may improve gut health by enhancing the diversity of beneficial gut bacteria and reducing the inflammatory symptoms of conditions like colitis. Acting as a prebiotic, quinoa supplies the fuel for beneficial gut bacteria, allowing them to thrive.

Quinoa (kiːnwɑː)

With its mild nutty flavor, this edible seed packs a powerful nutrition punch, containing anywhere from 17-27 grams of fiber and 8 grams of protein per cup cooked. Quinoa is also considered to be a whole grain, gluten free and contains anti-inflammatory properties.

What to add to quinoa to make it taste good? ›

I find that some of the best seasonings for quinoa are cumin, dried bay leaf, turmeric, and salt, and black pepper. I also love to flavor it with fresh garlic and herbs such as parsley, dill, and cilantro. You can add the seasonings of your choice into the pot at the same time with the liquid and cook it as directed.

Nicknamed a “superfood,” quinoa is a complete source of protein, which means it contains all nine amino acids, and it's also a great source of fiber (it contains more than any other grain) and heart-healthy fats.

Grains to avoid are wheat (such as wheat berries, spelt, kamut, farro and bulgur), rye, barley and triticale.

Oats contain macronutrients such as total carbohydrates, calcium, magnesium, total fat, proteins, saturated fats, iron, zinc, potassium, etc. Though both kinds of cereals are rich in nutrients, Quinoa is considered to be the healthier of the two.

Toss it in salads.

Quinoa is a complete source of protein and makes a great addition to a healthy salad. The combination of fiber, protein and healthy fats can turn a light side salad into a robust entrée.

The specific epithet quinoa is a borrowing from the Spanish quinua or quinoa, itself derived from Quechua kinwa. The Incas nicknamed quinoa chisiya mama, which in Quechua means "mother of all grains".

What is quinoa? Quinoa, pronounced 'keen-wa', is a gluten-free alternative to starchy grains. Although it often occupies a similar role to grains in dishes, quinoa is actually a seed from the same family as beets, chard and spinach. It is high in protein and an important plant source of all nine essential amino acids.

Kaniwa and quinoa are relatively similar and can be enjoyed in many similar ways. However, there are subtle differences in texture and taste that set these grains apart. For example, the fluffy and soft texture of quinoa makes it ideal for blending into a smoothie for a healthy hit of protein and fiber.

Couscous is not gluten-free, but quinoa is gluten-free. Compared to couscous, quinoa has stronger anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. With 7 percent fewer calories per 100 grams of cooked couscous than quinoa, it is healthier for weight loss. Every 100 grams of cooked quinoa has 120 calories.