San Diego Farmers Market Manager

The Secrets of Quinoa
Posted by Administrator (blb) on Aug 11 2010
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THE SECRETS OF QUINOA
When I hear people talk about quinoa it's often in wonder about what it is, or what it is used for or why it is good for you. I've wondered myself...and off the top of my head I think of it being a good source of protein from a whole grain - a good replacement for other pastas or couscous. But what are some of the deeper secrets of this special grain??
Here's what I discovered...
It is indeed a high protein grain...and not just any old protein, a complete protein, which includes the essential amino acids that we humans require and not often found in plants!
It is gluten-free!! This makes and easy and delicious substitute for other grains especially as rice gets old to those working with a gluten free diet. Quinoa flour can be used in gluten-free baking too!
Quinoa is high in fiber, iron and magnesium...all of which are helpful for a healthy digestive system and cell function.
So...how can you use it?
Think, hot breakfast with nuts and brown sugar, or cold pasta salad with feta and olives or a base for a marinara or pesto sauce. You can also sprout it by soaking it in clean water for a couple hours. This makes it even more digestable and releases its natural enzymes and more of its vitamin and mineral content. By doing so you can add to the top of green salads or as garnishes for other dishes. See the recipe below for another great idea - roasting it prior to boiling to release more of its nutty flavors!

The Secrets of Quinoa

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