Quinoa: A Substitute for Rice

Quinoa dates all the way back to the Incas who used to think of it as gold. In the modern era it has once again assumed a place of importance and forms a major part of today’s diet. Although it is just a grain, there are a variety of health benefits associated with its consumption. There are many people that crave for rice but find they are actually allergic to it. For such people, quinoa is a good substitute and is very versatile and can be used in a variety of ways.

What is Quinoa?

Even though Quinoa resembles a grain it is actually a seed. It comes from a plant that is green and leafy. This small seed will become fluffy when it is cooked and is accompanied by a small crunch. There are few people who do not like the taste when they first give it a try. It is actually interesting to see what happens to the seed when it is being cooked. The seed will lose the shell around it and separates from the core, which gives it a dual texture. When describing the taste many say it comes across with a flavor of nuts.

How Does it Look?

Unlike many grains Quinoa can be found in an assortment of colors. There is black, red, orange, purple, pink, and of course yellow which is the most common. This little seed is almost like magic when it is cooked. It quickly appears to be transparent while getting cooked. If one ever runs across the leave of this plant they are very edible and nutritious.

Is It a Good Substitute For Vegetarians?

When a person decides to take to vegetarianism they lose out on a variety of nutrients. By eating Quinoa those very nutrients can be acquired. There is iron in high concentration, vitamin B, potassium and amino acids of all types. Therefore it is a quick source for getting all those nutrients that were left behind when giving up eating meat. There is also Lysine which helps in repairing tissue and helping it grow and this is great for a person who leads an active lifestyle.

Other Nutrients Present in Quinoa

Some other proteins that can be enjoyed when eating Quinoa are copper, tryptophan, phosphorus, calcium to help the bones, magnesium, and manganese. Grains are usually known for fat content but it is lower and of the good kind. Since the Quinoa is a seed there is plenty of content that is considered good fat.This kind of fat is bound to help the brain function better while helping the heart stay healthy.

Cooking Quinoa The Simple and Easy Way

Just like rice Quinoa seed is easy to cook. Since there is a coating on the seeds make sure to rinse them off really well. Grab a pot where there will be one part of water and two parts of Quinoa. It only takes a mere fifteen minutes to cook these seeds. For people who love cooking with their rice cookers these seeds can also be cooked in the cookers. For extra taste that makes any dish come to life add some veggies or even broth instead of water.