Making quinoa isn't hard. Here are step-by-step instructions for how to cook quinoa - it's so simple and very little work involved!
Quinoa. You either love it or hate it. Me? I love it.
After having Elle I found myself in a new routine. Having parts of meals prepped in the refrigerator have been a life savor for me. I don't have the time to make anything extravagant so one of my go-to items to prep is quinoa to bulk up salads or pair it with a protein. It pairs well with just about anything and almost no effort to make!
What Is Quinoa?
Quinoa is similar to a whole grain, but it's actually not a whole grain at all! You can now find it in most grocery stores in the rice aisle. Quinoa has a nutty flavor and it's healthy too! For every 1 cup of quinoa there's 8 grams of protein.
How To Cook Quinoa?
Cooking quinoa is easier thank you think- don't let it intimidate you!
Everyone has their own way of cooking quinoa but I've been using this method for over a year and it comes out perfect every time. It's similar to how I cook rice too.
You see, I initially cooked quinoa the way that everyone recommended it- with a 1:2 quinoa to water ratio. And more often than not I found myself dealing with mushy batches of quinoa. It never ended up with that perfect light and fluffy texture that it should be.
Here we go...
We're using rinsed quinoa, chicken stock and salt (for flavor!) You will measure out each- 2 cups quinoa and 3 and ½ cups chicken stock. Don't forget the salt! Bring the chicken stock up to a boil over high heat, then pour in the quinoa and salt. Allow it to boil for about 5 minutes. Then, turn off the burner and cover it with a lid for 30 minutes. This trick is not to remove the lid.
After the quinoa steams, fluff it with a fork. I learned this part from my friend Elaine at Eating by Elaine. Genius. Normally I would just stir it together with a spoon but using a fork to fluff it helps give it the perfect texture.
If you want to get a head start on prepping meals for the coming week, cook up a big batch of quinoa and store it in the refrigerator. You'll thank yourself later- I know I do!
Pair Quinoa With These Recipes
- How to Make Salmon Cakes
- Lemon Rosemary Chicken and Potatoes
- Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli Au Gratin
How to Cook Quinoa
Description
Ingredients
- 2 cups rinsed un-cooked quinoa
- 3 ½ cups low-sodium chicken stock
- ½ teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Over high heat, bring the chicken stock to a boil in a 3 quart or more pot. Add the quinoa and stir. Allow the quinoa to boil for 5 minutes. Then, turn the heat off and cover the pot with a well-fitted lid.
- Let the quinoa sit covered for 30 minutes until the chicken stock is fully absorbed- do not remove the lid.
- Once cooked, remove the lid and fluff with a fork.
Notes
- Make Ahead Instructions: Quinoa can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to 1 week. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months- make sure it's completely cooled before freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
- Quinoa: If the quinoa you buy doesn't say "rinsed" make sure you rinse it.
- Chicken Stock: I find that stock (chicken, beef or vegetable) gives the best flavor, but you can use water as a substitute.
Kimberlie says
You're so right. I tried quinoa before like the package says and wasn't impressed. I think your recipe might make it more palatable.
Stean says
This is so interesting to read