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Once an obscure grain whose name no one could pronounce let alone bother to buy, Quinoa catapulted to fame in the Western world a few years ago. Branded a ‘super food’, it has managed to retain its popularity ever since, proving it's a stayer in the faddy super food world.
The Incas were onto quinoa thousands of years before us, known as the 'mother grain' they grew it high up in the Andes. There are roughly 120 known varieties of quinoa, according to the Whole Grains Council. The most commercialized types are white, red and black quinoa with white quinoa being the variety most commonly found in supermarkets.
Quinoa is a regular favourite on the vegetarian circuit, and with three good reasons. It’s gluten free, a superfood and a complete protein, making it an ideal ingredient in a vegetarian diet. The unusual form of quinoa is tiny and bead-shaped with a small tail making it a good substitute for couscous or rice.
It’s versatiity remains a key attraction lending itself easily to both vegan and vegetarian diets. We remember just how good quinoa is in these easy quinoa recipes; from cheffy creations with mushrooms, to stuffing peppers, to gluten free bakes and quinoa cakes. There isn’t much you can’t try with the ancient super grain.
IF you enjoy quinoa you’re sure to enjoy these 4 different easy quinoa recipes:
FRIED WILD MUSHROOMS ON A BED OF RED QUINOA
Chef Mauro Colagreco, from Mirazur restaurant in France brings us this creative quinoa recipe highlighting quinoa's capacity for haute cuisine.
Quinoa cakes
Both gluten free and dairy free these quinoa patties are an ideal appetizer for a crowd with mixed dietary requirements, and best of all they're extremely tasty so no one is going to feel like they're missing out.
Gluten Free Quinoa and Zucchini Bake
A hearty vegetarian bake with an added kick from English mustard in the sauce. This should keep the wolf from the door on a weekday evening.
Gluten free stuffed peppers with quinoa
Try these colourful stuffed peppers. Whilst this recipe calls for ground beef, try using beans and spinach instead if you want to go totally Meatless this Monday.
Stuck in a rut thinking of lunch ideas? We have some easy vegetarian lunch ideas from caponata to tortilla, lunch doesn't have to be ho hum.
