Quinoa is a pseudocereal that has been used by the people of South America for thousands of years. It is also called Peruvian rice or the sacred grain of the Incas. The local tribes valued the edible seeds this plant provides, even if they did not know all its properties. However, they knew that quinoa had a beneficial effect on health and vitality. Modern research has shown that it is a product of extraordinary nutritional value. Although South America is the homeland of quinoa, it is currently also grown in North America and Europe.
Properties of quinoa
It is not without reason that quinoa was such a highly valued plant among South American tribes. It is a product that hides an impressive set of health-valuable ingredients in its composition. For this reason, quinoa has been classified as a superfood. These are products with above-average nutritional values.
Organic quinoa seeds are a source of complete plant protein. A 100g serving provides approx. 12-14g of protein, which contains a complete set of amino acids not synthesized by the body – it is necessary to provide them through diet. This is one of the elements that distinguishes quinoa from classic grains. It is worth including this product in a vegan diet, which has more limited protein sources.
Furthermore, organic quinoa provides vitamins B, E, D, and essential minerals such as manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, iron, zinc, potassium, selenium, and calcium. The fiber and unsaturated fatty acids contained in quinoa, mainly linolenic, linoleic, and oleic acid, regulate blood cholesterol levels. This reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.
Quinoa also contains flavonoids, which are antioxidants that fight free radicals.
Seeds of pseudocereals like quinoa are naturally gluten-free. Therefore, they are chosen by people suffering from celiac disease or those excluding gluten for other reasons. The glycemic index of cooked organic quinoa is low – 35. This is lower than the GI of organic groats or organic rice.
How to cook quinoa?
Cooking quinoa is just like cooking groats or rice. Quinoa seeds should be rinsed in water to wash away the bitter aftertaste. Then, boil in a 1:2 ratio (1 part quinoa to 2 parts water) for about 25 minutes. The exact cooking time is provided on product pages and product labels.
Uses of Quinoa
Organic Quinoa is a versatile ingredient that fits many dishes and meals. It can be used as a substitute for groats or rice. Organic quinoa works well as an addition to main courses, soups, stews, salads, oatmeal, and sweet desserts. There are plenty of ways to use this ingredient.
Organic quinoa at the Żywioł Zdrowia store
Our store's offer includes organic quinoa seeds. It comes in three types – white, red, and black.
White quinoa has the most delicate taste and texture. It swells significantly during cooking. Its slightly sweet taste makes it the most popular, and it goes well with sweet desserts.
Red quinoa has a stronger, nutty aftertaste. It does not absorb much water during cooking – it remains firm and slightly crunchy.
Black quinoa also has a nutty aftertaste and remains slightly firm after cooking. The color of the seeds is due to its high anthocyanin content.
