Quinoa
The grainless “grain” - a nutrient-packed and low carb side dish/salad hero/surprising dessert ingredient can provide you with your daily need of protein, and much more.
The Grainless Grain
Quinoa, pronounced “KEEN-wah” if you’ve only ever read it, is thought of as one of many grain based side dishes, alongside things like rice, barley and bulgur, but it isn’t actually a grain at all - it’s a seed (like buckwheat). It is entirely gluten free, so a great ingredient for those with a gluten intolerance.
If you’ve heard or read anything about quinoa at all, you probably have an image of it being very healthy - it’s a go-to in healthy salads and superfood stores and restaurants. And it really is very healthy!
It’s crazy to think that a little seed contains so much nutrition - but it really is packed full of it. Protein, potentially enough for your daily intake, as well as some healthy fats and a surprising amount of carbs (39 grams per cup of quinoa!). You get some fibre, and also lots of manganese and magnesium, zinc, copper, folate and Vitamins B6 and E. Wow! So what do all these nutrients mean?
The fibre content of quinoa is higher than in rice, for example. Fibre helps you feel full and also aids your digestive system, by helping the healthy bacteria in your gut thrive. It is called a “complete protein”, as it contains all the amino acids the body can’t produce on its own, however some experts point out that the level of some of these are very low. Still, it is clear it is a great source of protein - worth noting for vegans, for example!
Magnesium, which quinoa is high in, is great for your mental health. Zinc is important for wound healing and for your immune system. Folate is important for the growth and development of the foetus, so it’s great for pregnant women!
Quinoa also contains antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory purposes.
You can use quinoa for so many different things - it’s certainly worth cooking a large amount when you do make it, so you can store some in the fridge to put in your salad or in a breakfast bowl with nuts and fruit in the morning. It’s got a delicious nutty, mild taste - I absolutely love it!
What’s the most colourful meal you’ve ever made? I’d love to see it! Message me on Instagram @TheFromScratchBody!
