This is how it works step by step

What is quinoa?

Quinoa is an undemanding flowering plant that still thrives at high altitudes. Their seeds can be boiled, fried, or roasted. Quinoa is suitable for risottos, stir-fries or as an accompaniment to meat dishes. Roasted or puffed, it brings a hearty taste to the morning muesli.
However, the excellent vegetable protein source, which contains plenty of amino acids and minerals, is gluten-free. A fact that is particularly important for people with a gluten intolerance. You can use quinoa in the kitchen instead of regular grain. Due to its delicious taste, you can combine it with fish, meat, vegetables or with desserts and mueslis.

Process quinoa

The small grains are easy to roast in the pan. When buying quinoa, pay attention to whether the grains have already been washed. Unwashed quinoa can taste bitter due to the saponin it contains.

If the grains have not been washed, they must be rinsed under running water before processing until no more foam forms. Then the seed is dried for at least half an hour.

Toast in the pan

Heat some oil in the pan and add the seeds as soon as it is hot. Toast the grains for a few minutes, turning them constantly, then add other ingredients such as onions or garlic. After roasting, add water or broth and let the grain cook for about a quarter of an hour until al dente.

Puff quinoa

1. Heat a heavy pan.
2. If you don't add oil, the puffed grains will have fewer calories.
3. As soon as the pan is hot, add enough quinoa to cover the bottom. In a few seconds the kernels will puff up like popcorn.
4. Put a lid on so the grains don't pop out.
5. When no more puffing noises can be heard, all the seeds have sprouted. Take the pan off the stove.
6. Put the puffed quinoa in a bowl to cool. Now you can season. For example, salt, pepper, chilli or herbs are suitable.