Quinoa, its preparation and effect on our health? Here is our recipe

Quinoa should definitely be a part of every diet. As well as being wonderfully filling, it helps our bodies cope with stress, as it is very rich in nutrients.

It comes from South America, where it was cultivated by the ancient Aztecs and Incas, who considered it sacred and already knew its health benefits.

It is one of the few plants that contains all the essential fatty acids our bodies need. It is also easily digestible and contains minimal fat.

We can also say that it is a superfood.

Not for nothing is it considered one of the most effective weapons against hunger in the world.

Although it may resemble a cereal, it is also a pseudo cereal. It is suitable for coeliacs and diabetics. In fact, it is grown and used in the same way, but botanically it is not one of them.

There are even three basic types of quinoa, namely white, red and black. However, there are more than a hundred different varieties. They differ in taste and composition, but only minimally.

For example, white is richer in fibre and better for digestive problems. It is also better for fast fat burning and has a slightly nutty taste.

Red has more protein and carbohydrates. Its higher fat content makes it useful for quick energy, strength and endurance and is suitable for athletes. The taste is more pronounced and crunchy.

Black is more suitable for stress, to improve mood and reduce depression. It also has anti-inflammatory effects and a slightly earthy taste.

However, all three types are very similar in composition, containing high amounts of amino acids, protein and fibre.

Of the vitamins and minerals, it contains A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B8, B9, C and E, magnesium, phosphorus, manganese, honey, selenium, calcium, zinc and iron.

All these substances make it an excellent aid in reducing blood pressure and stress. It promotes quality sleep, the production of the happiness hormone and improves mood thanks to its tryptophan content.

Calcium promotes bone health and strength. So does protein, which also affects heart health. It also helps with diabetes and, along with iron, anemia.

It also contains antioxidants that fight against harmful substances in the body. These are antidepressant, antibacterial and also help fight viruses and cancer in our body.

Thanks to the fiber contained in quinoa, we have better and better digestion. It also rids us of harmful substances in the digestive tract, where it acts as an imaginary broom that cleans everything.

Its neutral taste makes it suitable for both sweet and savoury dishes. It is very versatile, so it can be used as a main ingredient in the preparation of dishes.

It is also suitable as a side dish for main meals. It can also be prepared as a sweet dessert in the form of pudding or baked cake.

What do you need to prepare quinoa?

• 250 g quinoa
• 550 ml of water or stock
• olive oil
• sea or pink salt and basil to taste

Recipe for quinoa

1. The most important thing is to rinse the quinoa thoroughly under running water and wash it by hand.

2. Boil the dried and thoroughly rinsed quinoa in water or stock. Depending on the species, this may take 10 to 20 minutes.

Once cooked, while the remaining water is still evaporating, stir the quinoa. Cook it on the stove, covered, for another 10 minutes. It will be softer and tastier.

3. After cooking, drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with basil and salt to taste.

The quinoa prepared in this way can be served as a side dish with the main course or, for example, as a base for risotto.

Enjoy!

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