How Can I Make Quinoa Taste Better?

Quinoa is a superfood that is high in protein, fiber, and vitamins and minerals but it can sometimes taste bland. That can make people turn their noses up at quinoa and assume that it’s not good for them. Luckily, there are plenty of ways to make this grain taste better so you can enjoy it more often!

Rinse the Grain

The best way to get rid of bitterness in quinoa is to rinse it well with cold water before cooking. This will help to remove the saponin that can often leave the grain tasting bitter.

Fried Garlic

Adding fried garlic to a bowl of quinoa can really add a kick to the flavor. It will also help to infuse the quinoa with extra aroma, which will make it taste a lot more tasty.

Olive Oil and Stock

Infusing the quinoa with stock will add extra flavour and also help to infuse it with more aroma. The stock can be any kind of stock you prefer – chicken, beef or vegetable stock will all work well here.

Cilantro

Fresh cilantro, a bright and flavorful herb, is an excellent garnish for any dish. Besides giving the quinoa extra zing, it will also make it look and smell gorgeous!

Lime Juice

The juice from one lime will make your quinoa taste delicious and is a great way to add some acidity. The tangy lime juice will also keep your meal from becoming too sweet.

Salt and Herbs

Infusing your quinoa with herbs is another way to make it more flavourful. Using herbs like basil, rosemary, thyme, and sage can give your quinoa the boost it needs.

Serving Suggestions

Toss quinoa with any type of salad for a healthy meal. Try tossing it with a mix of colorful vegetables, a bit of cheese, or other ingredients that will boost the flavor and add a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals to your meal.

Butter or Coconut Oil

The addition of butter or coconut oil to a bowl of quinoa will give it a deliciously fluffy texture and mildly sweet flavor. Then, toss it with a generous handful of chopped vegetables or some toasted nuts for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.

You can even use quinoa in place of couscous for a light, healthier breakfast. Just be sure to season the cooked quinoa with salt and pepper, as it will be absorbed by the grains better this way.

Cooking the Grain

A simple way to cook the quinoa is to cook it in a pot of water like you would pasta or couscous. Once the quinoa is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow it to steam. It will then fluff up perfectly and be ready to serve.

Alternatively, you can cook the quinoa in the oven or microwave for a quicker and easier method of preparing this grain. It will take about 30 minutes to cook this way and it can be made ahead of time so you can have a hearty, nutritious meal when you’re in a hurry.