Super Foods

Quinoa is fast becoming what many health experts are calling "the super grain of the future", because of the fact that it is such a rich source of balanced essential nutrients.

History

But despite this present day claim to fame, Quinoa was once a very important food staple of the Inca empire thousands of years ago.

It was so revered by the Incas that they called it "Mother Grain" and they fueled entire armies on long marches into battle on what were called "war balls", consisting of a mixture of Quinoa and fat.

Health Benefits

Quinoa is one of the best sources of plant based protein in the world, containing all of the nine essential amino acids that humans must obtain from their diet and it is particularly high in the amino acid Lysine, which is limited in the vegetable kingdom. 1 Cup of Quinoa contains 7 grams of protein.

It also contains high amounts of the nutrients phosphorous, calcium, magnesium, zinc, iron, vitamin E, manganese, the B-complex vitamins and fiber.

Preparation and Usage 

Quinoa comes in a variety of colors such as pale yellow, orange, red, purple and black - with the nutrient content varying only slightly with each. It is prepared much the same way as rice (2 cups water to 1 cup Quinoa, bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes), and can be used as a side dish in place of other starchy foods.

Because it tastes somewhat bland, Quinoa can be added to most dishes such as soups, salads, pastas and stuffing and it will take on and enhance the flavor of the main dish.

When preparing to cook Quinoa, make certain that you wash it thoroughly first under running water, as it contains a protective outer coating called Saponin, which if left intact will give it a bitter taste.

Like all live whole foods, Quinoa loses it's nutritional value over time, so its best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.