Quinoa (Keen wah) is the seed of a dark leafy green plant that is closely related to Swiss chard (a variety of beet, Beta Vularis cicla) and spinach, although ninety-nine percent of the time it is found near the other grains in the store. Quinoa is the only grain that is a complete protein that is even healthier for you than wheat. However Quinoa is wheat and gluten free.
Quinoa can easily be substituted for cous-cous and many rice dishes. Just know that Quinoa is a really versatile grain and is used by Vegans and Non-Vegans alike. Always go for the organic real Quinoa.
To prepare this awesome grain treat it similar to rice.- First rinse the Quinoa in cold water thoroughly prior to cooking. This will remove all of the silky residue from the grain -now it is ready to cook.
- Next, it should be used in a ratio of 2:1, that's two cups of water and one cup of Quinoa.
- Cook in a pan over heat and bring to a boil, then cover it and allow it to simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes.
- You will know that it is done when it becomes translucent and the germ of the seed forms a little white ring on the outside. All of the water will be absorbed too.
Another healthy quality is that Quinoa has a low glycemic index. Therefore it slowly releases into the blood and makes you feel fuller longer. It will not spike your blood sugar levels like some foods. It is naturally loaded with fiber, potassium, iron, and magnesium.
This nutritional powerhouse has a light, fluffy texture, a translucent appearance, and a slightly nutty flavor. It comes in a variety of colors however, you may only find either the Inca Red or the Traditional (Ivory) both are sold in a small box. It sometimes can be found in bulk bins but the price is not much better. It should be stored in a cool dry place like a cabinet. I have heard that it can be frozen once you bring it home, but hey it's only 12 oz. right? The box will last about three or four months in the cabinet typically.
It is always available at Whole Foods grocery and it is fairly expensive at $4.69 /12oz. I found it once at Costco's wholesale for (check this) only $9.99 for four pounds) that's only $2.50 per pound.
If you want an easy recipe to create a wonderful meal for two just keep reading.
Here you have an easy and awesome recipe just combine :
- garlic (one clove minced )
- ginger (one teaspoon grated)
- scallions (three minced )
- red pepper one (chopped)
- mango half of full fruit (diced)
- black beans (15 oz. can rinsed)
- lime juice ( half lime)
- chicken chopped and pre-cooked (4oz.)
- Quinoa ( already prepared ) one cup
- just a couple of handfuls of baby spinach
- use two pita pockets or use a hot favorite bread
Just combine all of the ingredients into a bowl, next add the (4oz) chicken, and lastly add (1 cup) of Quinoa on top of the ingredients in the same bowl. Now crack some fresh black pepper and sea salt into the bowl as a dashing touch.
Next prepare the bread of choice, then place the baby spinach in the pita or onto the bread - then stuff with ingredients from the bowl.
Wow - take a photo what a great job! Congratulations!
Now you owe me for this one. Please put in a nice word below would ya? Don't forget the towel - you're droolin' already. Easy does it.
Stay Healthy,
Keep it Rolling!
www.myganocafe.com/fasttrack
Taking action is the key to improving YOU! Just do it!
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