grain
Quinoa
In a nutshell
Quinoa offers a nutty, fluffy texture with complete proteins.
Flavor profile
warm1
sweet0
pungent0
bitter1
floral0
earthy2
citrus0
smoky0
Aroma: nutty, earthy
Good to know
Origin: Andes Mountains, South America
Forms: white, red, black
Storage: Store in a cool, dry place; cooked quinoa can be refrigerated for up to a week.
How to use quinoa
Boil Away Bitterness
Rinsing removes saponins, unleashing nutty flavors.
Salad Star
Dressings cling to quinoa starch, boosting flavor.
What goes with quinoa
- Lime. Lime's acidity brightens quinoa's nutty blandness nicely.
- Black pepper. Black pepper's spiciness gives quinoa a needed kick.
- Tomato. Tomato's acidity and juiciness add moisture, contrasting quinoa's dryness.
- Cilantro. Cilantro's aldehydes, like E-2-decenal, give citrusy notes to quinoa's blandness.
- Cumin. Cumin's earthy warmth enlivens quinoa's mildness.
- Spinach. Quinoa's nutty grain pairs with spinach's grassy leaves in warm salads.
- Walnut. Walnut's rich nuttiness echoes quinoa's earthy, nutty grain.
- Zucchini. Mild zucchini adds juicy softness against quinoa's firm bite.
- Sunflower Seed. Sunflower seeds repeat quinoa's nutty flavor and add crunch.
- Tahini. Tahini's nutty cream dresses quinoa's earthy grain.
Mistakes to avoid
- Unrinsed saponins taste bitter.
- Too much water makes quinoa mushy.
Ideas for tonight
- Quinoa salad with feta and beets
- Quinoa and vegetable stir-fry
- Quinoa-stuffed peppers
Quinoa: questions
What does quinoa taste like?
Quinoa offers a nutty, fluffy texture with complete proteins., with an aroma that is nutty, earthy.
What goes well with quinoa?
Quinoa pairs best with lime, black pepper, tomato, cilantro, cumin. Lime's acidity brightens quinoa's nutty blandness nicely.
How do you use quinoa in cooking?
Boil Away Bitterness: rinsing removes saponins, unleashing nutty flavors.
How should you store quinoa?
Store in a cool, dry place; cooked quinoa can be refrigerated for up to a week.
What is the most common mistake with quinoa?
Unrinsed saponins taste bitter.
