Meatless Monday - History and Nutrition of Quinoa with Recipe

“Quinoa is considered to be the organic food of the future and holds great potential in efforts to eradicate poverty worldwide and provide global food security and nutrition.” United Nations.

Quinoa´s biodiversity and nutritional value play an important role in providing food security, nutrition, and the eradication of poverty. 

Quinoa is a grain-like crop grown primarily for its edible seeds. It is a pseudocereal rather than a true cereal, or grain. Quinoa originated over 3,000 years ago in the Andean region of Ecuador, Bolivia, Colombia, and Peru. 

Quinoa Nutritional Information

Quinoa is high in protein, a good source of dietary fiber and phosphorus, and is high in magnesium and iron. Quinoa is also gluten-free.

Preparation. Quinoa has a natural bitter-tasting coating called saponins. Most quinoa sold commercially has been processed to remove this coating. However, the directions may require additional rinsing before cooking.

Quinoa can be added to a wide variety of dishes and substituted in recipes using rice or couscous. Quinoa flour can be used in wheat-free and gluten-free baking. To enhance the flavor, stock can be exchanged for water during cooking. Quinoa also can provide a nutritious breakfast with the addition of honey, nuts or fruits.

Quinoa with Berries

Ingredients
1/2 cup Quinoa Salad, prepared
1/2 cup Blueberries and Raspberries

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