What is Quinoa?
Here's the Technical stuff:
Quinoa (pronounced keen-wa) is a grain like seed from South America. It is high in protein and essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source, unusual among plant foods. It is a good source of dietary fiber and phosphorus and is high in magnesium and iron. Also, Quinoa is gluten-free and considered easy to digest.
That said, it is a fun little seed, and when cooked has a nutty flavor and a al dente type texture. I have seen the gold and red versions, and personally I prefer the red - it's mostly a color thing. I like my food to look interesting. :-) Quinoa can be used in sweet or savory dishes, it's versatile like that. Here's a few that I prefer:
Breakfast: Cook quinoa as directed and let cool, spoon out your desired portion and mix in a bit of honey, cinnamon, and any chopped dried fruits of your choice - dates, cranberries, raisins, apricots etc. Add a few nuts if you want some added crunch. Stir and nosh!
Side Dish: Cook one cup of quinoa as directed on package, placed in bowl and stir in 1 cup chickpeas, 1 diced tomato, 1 clove minced garlic, 3 tablespoons lime juice, 4 teaspoons olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin, pinch of salt, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro, 1/2 cup diced red onion. Let cool in fridge - it will get even more flavor after sitting for a bit. When ready to serve garnish with some chopped avocado.
Quinoa Tabbouleh: Cook one cup of quinoa as directed on package, meanwhile in a large bowl, combine 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/4 cup lemon juice, 2 diced tomatoes, 1 diced cucumber, 2 bunches diced green onions, 1 cup fresh chopped parsley (or substitute cilantro for an extra kick). Stir in mixed quinoa - serve cool or warm. Add some Feta cheese crumbles on top for extra flavor.
I hope you might be inspired to try something new!
So far my change in eating has gone well, even through the holiday season with the family feast of delights. I'm happy to say that through it all I have managed to shed more weight - and as of this morning I am 4 pounds lighter than my "stomach flu low" on 12/27. By no means am I starving myself - if I'm hungry I eat, but it's what goes in to my mouth that has been making a huge difference. I'm actually quite amazed at how just changing over to more fresh natural foods has made me feel more energetic overall.
Smile and enjoy life!
H
