Quinoa has been dubbed the "superfood of the century." Unlike most grains, this super protein-rich ingredient contains all nine essential amino acids, including lysine, making it ideal for vegetarians. Quinoa refers to the seeds of the plant, which are the edible part of the plant that people consume. These are free of gluten.
Quinoa is a popular protein-rich, naturally gluten-free, and extremely versatile. Quinoa has a nutty flavour and a chewy texture. Quinoa, a seed, is an excellent base for salads and bowls, as well as a tasty addition to veggie burgers and breads and as a breakfast porridge. It can also be used in your dinner cooking.
Here are some veg recipes you can make using quinoa.
1. Quinoa Upma
Vegetable Quinoa Upma is a quick and filling Indian breakfast dish that can be made in an instant pot or on the stovetop. Serve with chutney and masala chai for a filling breakfast. It is gluten-free and vegan.
This recipe for healthy quinoa upma is very similar to the traditional Rava upma. Simply replace the rava (semolina) with quinoa and some vegetables, and it can be ready in 15-20 minutes. Bread Upma, Vermicelli Upma, Sabudana Upma, Wheat/Dalia Upma, and Oats Upma are some other types of upma prepared in Indian homes.
2. Quinoa Lentil Soup
Quinoa Lentil Soup is a hearty vegetable, lentil, and quinoa soup recipe that is also nutrient-dense, delicious, and comfort food in every bite prepared in an instant pot pressure cooker or on the stovetop.
This delicious quinoa and red lentil soup recipe is high in protein, with all of the essential amino acids, and fibre, much higher than most grains. It is also gluten-free, making it ideal for those who are gluten-sensitive. You may choose any veggie you like. This Quinoa soup is a great weekday lunch or dinner recipe that is also kid-friendly.
3. Quinoa Black Bean Salad
You will undoubtedly enjoy this dish if you are a vegetarian. This Quinoa & Black Bean Salad is hearty, protein-rich, and loaded with fresh vegetables, all tossed in a lime vinaigrette. It's vegan, gluten-free, and ready in under 20 minutes. Serve it as a side dish for breakfast or as an evening snack.
4. Quinoa Fried Rice
Vegetable Quinoa Fried Rice is an easy, healthy, and delicious Indian Chinese stir-fried dish that can be made in 20 minutes with leftover quinoa. It's a fantastic weeknight or lunchbox meal that everyone will enjoy. Vegan and kid-friendly. You can fill this dish up with any vegetable you like. You can experiment with different vegetables each time you make this quinoa fried rice recipe.
5. Lemon Quinoa
Lemon Quinoa is a South Indian-style lemon rice made with quinoa on the stovetop and in the Instant Pot. Quinoa is cooked and sautéed with onions, then seasoned with mustard seeds, lentils, curry leaves, and turmeric. Fresh lemon juice adds a slightly tangy flavour that enhances the taste and gives it a distinct flavour. It is vegan and gluten-free.
6. Curd Quinoa
Curd rice is a traditional Indian staple that is made with rice and is commonly referred to as Curd Rice. Mosoranna in Kannada, Daddojanam in Telugu, Thayir Sadam in Tamil, Dahi Bhaat in Maharashtra, and Dahi wale Chawal in Hindi are some other names for it.
Many people grew up eating curd rice, which is a common dish in Indian cuisine. Due to the numerous health benefits of quinoa, which is high in protein and dietary fibre and has many more nutritional values than rice, you can substitute quinoa for rice in this simple dish, and it tastes delicious.
7. Quinoa Khichdi
This is one-pot ultimate comfort food made in an instant pot pressure cooker or on the stovetop with quinoa, moong dal/lentils, vegetables, and some basic spices. This dish is vegan, gluten-free, and weight-loss friendly.
Feel free to substitute any vegetables you prefer. This Quinoa Dal Khichdi recipe is a healthy and delicious lunch or dinner option even for toddlers. Simply mash the vegetables in the khichri before serving them.