Quinoa

Quinoa is a pseudocereal used by South Americans for thousands of years. It is also called Peruvian rice or the sacred grain of the Incas. These people appreciated the edible grains this plant produces, although they did not fully understand its properties. However, they did know that quinoa beneficially affects health and vital energy. Modern research has shown it to be a product of extraordinary nutritional value. Although quinoa originated in South America, it is now also cultivated in North America and Europe.

Properties of quinoa

Quinoa was highly valued by South American tribes for good reason. It's a product that contains a wide range of health-promoting ingredients. For this reason, quinoa has been classified as a superfood . These products possess above-average nutritional value.

Organic quinoa grains are a source of complete plant protein. A 100g serving provides approximately 12-14g of protein, which contains a complete set of amino acids that are not synthesized in the body—these must be obtained from food. This is one of the elements that distinguishes quinoa from traditional grains. It's worth including this product in a vegan diet, which has more limited protein sources.

Additionally, organic quinoa provides B vitamins, E, and D, as well as essential minerals such as manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, copper, iron, zinc, potassium, selenium, and calcium. Quinoa's fiber and unsaturated fatty acids, primarily linolenic, linoleic, and oleic acids, regulate blood cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular diseases.

Quinoa also contains flavonoids, antioxidants that fight free radicals. This slows down the aging process and reduces the risk of developing cancer and other diseases.

Pseudocereal grains like quinoa are naturally gluten-free. Therefore, they are often chosen by people with diabetes. for 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 rice .

How to cook quinoa?

Cooking quinoa is similar to cooking groats or rice. Rinse the quinoa grains in water to remove any bitter aftertaste. Then cook them in a 1:2 ratio (1 part quinoa to 2 parts water) for approximately 25 minutes. Exact cooking times are listed on product sheets and labels.

Uses of Quinoa

Organic quinoa is a versatile ingredient that complements many dishes and meals. It can be used as a substitute for groats or rice. Organic quinoa is a great addition to main courses, soups, stews, salads, oatmeal, and sweet desserts. There are countless ways to use this ingredient.

Organic quinoa at the Żywioł Zdrowia store

Our store offers organic quinoa seeds. They come in three varieties: white, red, and black.

White quinoa has the most delicate flavor and texture. It swells significantly during cooking. Its slightly sweet flavor makes it the most popular and pairs well with sweet desserts.

Red quinoa has a stronger, nutty flavor. It doesn't absorb much water during cooking—it remains firm and slightly crunchy.

Black quinoa also has a nutty flavor and remains slightly firm after cooking. The grains' color comes from their high anthocyanin content.