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How to Cook Quinoa Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.3 from 36 reviews
  • Author: admin
  • Prep Time: 2 minutes
  • Cook Time: 13 minutes
  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 to 4.4 people (makes approximately 3 cups cooked quinoa)
  • Category: Grain Side Dish
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: International
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

A simple and reliable method to cook fluffy quinoa on the stovetop, yielding perfectly toasted grains with a nutty flavor. This recipe guides you through rinsing, toasting, simmering, and resting quinoa for the best texture and taste.


Ingredients

Scale

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 1 Tbsp butter or extra light olive oil
  • 2 cups filtered water
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt


Instructions

  1. Rinse Quinoa: Rinse quinoa thoroughly in a fine mesh sieve under running water for at least 30 seconds to remove its natural bitter coating, then drain well.
  2. Toast Quinoa: Heat a large saucepan over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon butter or heat olive oil. Add the drained quinoa and stir constantly for about 3 minutes until the grains are golden and separated, releasing a nutty aroma.
  3. Simmer Quinoa: Add 2 cups filtered water and 1/2 teaspoon fine sea salt to the saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for 13 to 15 minutes until the water is fully absorbed and tiny spirals appear around each grain.
  4. Rest and Fluff: Remove the saucepan from heat and keep it covered for another 5 minutes. After resting, use a fork to fluff the quinoa gently before serving.

Notes

  • Rinsing quinoa removes saponins that can impart bitterness.
  • Toasting quinoa enhances its nutty flavor and improves texture.
  • Use a fine mesh sieve to rinse quinoa thoroughly without losing grains.
  • Ensure the pot is covered during simmering and resting for even cooking.
  • Fluffing with a fork prevents clumping and keeps quinoa light and airy.