What is quinoa anyway?

Posted by Matt on July 2nd, 2009 at 12:00pm

One of the biggest issues vegetarians and vegans face is  getting protein sources. One of the best sources out there for vegetarians, vegans or anyone else is quinoa. Quinoa is the seed of a South American plant. It is most commonly cooked like rice in a boiling pot of water until soft. Since it is technically a seed, quinoa is a healthy and tasty protein source for everyone from vegans to die-hard meat eaters. It tastes like rice, but with a bit of a crunch. Its texture is very similar to couscous. Over the past few years, quinoa has become more readily available. Chances are, your local supermarket now stocks it. Give quinoa a try with this tasty recipe.

Quinoa Stir Fry with Shiitakes and Almonds

Ingredients

1/2 pound fresh shiitake mushrooms, stems removed and sliced
2 tablespoon oil
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 whole jalapeno pepper, seeds removed and chopped
1/3 cup slivered almonds
2 cup cooked quinoa
2 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon finely minced ginger
3 tablespoon minced green onion

Instructions

1. Heat a wok until hot. Add oil and cook garlic and jalapeno pepper until golden.

2. Add shiitake and cook for 2 minutes over high heat.

3. Remove shiitake to a plate using a slotted spoon, leaving the wok over the heat.

4. Add almonds to wok with remaining oil. Cook until lightly toasted, return shiitake, and add quinoa. Stir fry over high heat until quinoa is heated, about 1 minute.

5. Add soy sauce and stir vigorously for 30 seconds, then add lemon juice and toss quickly.

6. Sprinkle with very finely minced ginger and green onion mixture.

Tags: food, healthy eating, healthy foods, Healthy Recipes, home cooking, nutrition, what to eat

Under Healthy Recipes+ Uncategorized Tags: food, healthy eating, healthy foods, Healthy Recipes, home cooking, nutrition, what to eat