Quinoa Pilaf

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Quinoa is a new-ish to me food that I am trying to incorporate into our diet more and more. Quinoa is a pseudo-grain (technically a seed) that contains all 9 essential amino acids that are not generated by the body making it a complete protein. It can be difficult for vegetarians who avoid soy to consume enough complete proteins so I am trying to incorporate more foods that are complete proteins. Two of my other favorite plant-based complete proteins are amaranth and spirulina!

Quinoa cooks up very quickly and can take the place of rice in most recipes. I am really enjoying eating it "pilaf style" which means cooking the quinoa in broth rather than water. I also like adding in chopped carrots, frozen peas, and frozen corn to up our vegetable intake just a bit more! Quinoa pilaf makes a great lunch or dinner side dish and is great served hot or cold.

Quinoa Pilaf

Ingredients
  • 1 cup quinoa rinsed very well
  • 2 cups vegetable or No-Chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup frozen corn
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup chopped carrot
  • Herbs and seasonings to taste (I used a few shakes of dried parsley, dried oregano, dried dill, pink salt, and pepper)
Directions

  • Place all ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat.
  • Bring to a boil.
  • Cover and cook for 13-15 minutes or until all water is absorbed.
  • Fluff with a fork and enjoy!

1 comment:

Emily said...

I love quinoa! I'll have to keep this recipe in mind.

 
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