Quinoa is a superfood that deserves a place of honor in the kitchen. Cultivated for more than five centuries in the Andes and called the “gold of the Incas”, quinoa has in recent years been rapidly increasing in popularity among supporters of a healthy diet, to whom the nutritional values of the food consumed are important.
This “pseudo-cereal” attends more and more tables, because it is prepared very quickly and is easily combined with a variety of dishes. It usually serves as a substitute for rice and pasta .
HEALTH BENEFITS OF QUINOA
Quinoa supplies the human body with far more antioxidants than any other grain used in gluten-free diets and brings many health benefits.
Consuming quinoa can reduce the risk of:
- Cardiovascular diseases;
- Type 2 diabetes ;
- Hemorrhoids ;
- Constipation ;
- High blood pressure ;
- Colon cancer;
- Excess weight.
WHAT DOES QUINOA CONTAIN?
Quinoa is a rich source of:
- Proteins. Vegans and vegetarians fall in love with quinoa because of its high protein content. Analyzes have shown that quinoa is a “complete protein” that contains all the essential amino acids.
- Plant fibers. Quinoa has almost twice as much fiber as other grains. This means that it can help with constipation, reduce the risk of hemorrhoids, and be an ally in losing weight.
- Minerals, especially magnesium . One cup of uncooked quinoa contains as much as 83% of the recommended daily intake of magnesium.
- Iron . One cup of uncooked quinoa has 43% of the recommended daily intake of iron.
- Riboflavin (B2). Riboflavin, like magnesium, can help prevent and reduce migraine headaches .
Quinoa does not contain gluten and is easily digested in the body. More and more people are trying to eliminate gluten from their diet, so quinoa fits perfectly into a gluten-free diet.
PREPARATION OF QUINOA
Quinoa expands during the cooking process, so keep in mind that 1 cup of raw quinoa will yield about 3 cups of cooked quinoa.
Before you start cooking the quinoa, it is recommended to wash it in a colander and rub it with your palms. Try a few beans and if it tastes bitter, continue washing.
Quinoa is boiled in water. Two cups of water are enough to cook one cup of quinoa . It is best to boil the water first and then add the quinoa. Cook at low temperature for 15-20 minutes.
Consume quinoa in combination with vegetables or fruits or add it to soups and salads. Be creative, because the flavor of quinoa allows for endless culinary experimentation.
It’s definitely worth giving quinoa a chance to enrich your dinner table and improve your life.
