I consider myself a quinoa expert. Having cooked countless batches of this versatile grain for my cookbook, I’ve experimented with various methods and flavors. However, I always found myself frustrated with the results – mushy and overdone quinoa. Determined to find a solution, I embarked on a quest for the perfect cooking technique.
The Quest for Fluffy Quinoa
I followed the standard quinoa cooking method initially, but it consistently led to disappointing results. I tried reducing the amount of water, as some recipes suggested, but it only provided partial relief. Occasionally, I even had to add more water during cooking, resulting in quinoa that absorbed too much dressing later on.
One day, a realization struck me – why cover the quinoa while cooking? Since my quinoa was consistently mushy, covering it did not seem like the right approach.
Unveiling the Trick to Perfect Fluffy Quinoa
And there it was, the secret to perfectly fluffy quinoa – a straightforward trick. Instead of covering the quinoa while cooking, I discovered that using twice as much water as quinoa and cooking it uncovered until all the water is absorbed works wonders. The cooking time may vary based on the quantity of quinoa.
Once the water is fully absorbed, remove the pot from heat, cover it, and let the quinoa steam for 5 minutes. It’s during this short period that the quinoa pops open into fluffy perfection. This is the foolproof method for cooking quinoa properly.
I’ve received numerous questions about avoiding mushy quinoa, so I couldn’t resist sharing this life-changing technique. Below, you’ll find the complete recipe and instructions.
Scroll down to discover the full recipe, watch a short video showcasing my technique, and explore 10 of my favorite quinoa recipes. For even more quinoa inspiration, you can find all of my quinoa recipes here.
Watch How to Make Perfectly Fluffy Quinoa
What is Quinoa?
If you haven’t encountered quinoa yet, let me introduce you to this remarkable pseudocereal. Unlike traditional grains, quinoa is technically not a grass like wheat. It grows near the Andes in South America and is packed with nutrients, including fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals like manganese, magnesium, and folate.
Quinoa is a highly nutritious addition to your diet, with benefits too extensive to list here. You can find quinoa in most grocery stores, often in the health section or near the rice. Alternatively, you can purchase quinoa online at Amazon (affiliate link).
10 Favorite Quinoa Recipes
1) Sun-Dried Tomato, Spinach and Quinoa Salad
“This salad is so good – easy and delicious!” – Terri
2) Broccoli, Cheddar & Quinoa Gratin
“This was so good! It’s a perfect healthier version of a classic!” – Stephanie
3) Quinoa Black Bean Tacos with Creamy Avocado Sauce
“This is one of my favorite dishes ever! Followed the instructions and enjoyed a yummy dinner.” – Dessi
4) Colorful Beet Salad with Carrot, Quinoa & Spinach
“THE best salad ever! My husband and I absolutely love it!” – Jacqueline
5) Quinoa Vegetable Soup with Kale
“I absolutely love it! This soup is great for all ages!” – Maya
6) Southwestern Kale Power Salad with Sweet Potato, Quinoa & Avocado Sauce
“We made this for dinner and can’t stop talking about it! It’s delicious and full of flavor.” – Tiffany
7) Favorite Quinoa Salad
“Delicious recipe, Kate. This is definitely one of the best quinoa salads I’ve made.” – Allison
8) Crunchy Thai Peanut & Quinoa Salad
“Made this for dinner tonight when a friend came over. Even my four-year-old loved it!” – Lea
9) Quinoa Broccoli Slaw with Honey-Mustard Dressing
“Three of us polished off this recipe in one sitting. It was wonderful! Thank you!” – Leah
10) Cinnamon Toast Breakfast Quinoa
“Made this for breakfast this morning, and it’s amazing! It’s definitely going to be in my regular rotation.” – Carly
If you’re looking for more recipe ideas, I’ve got you covered. Check out 23 make-ahead breakfast recipes, 16 recipes perfect for packed lunches, and 20 simple weeknight dinner ideas. You can find all the essential kitchen equipment here.
Remember to follow us on Pinterest for a constant stream of recipe inspiration!
This article was brought to you by Ekilove. Let’s cook and enjoy quinoa together!
