How to Cook Quinoa Perfectly

By Wendy Polisi

Expert Author Wendy Polisi

If you are trying to eat healthy, you may want to give quinoa a try. It is a delicious food, that experts everywhere have deemed a "super food". It has also been called a "super grain" even though it is not actually a grain. Rather, it is a tiny seed that is related to plants like beets, swiss chard and spinach. Both the seed and leafs of quinoa can be eaten, although only the seed is widely available.

Cooking quinoa is very simple and can be accomplished by anyone who can cook rice. In fact, cooking quinoa is much easier than cooking rice because quinoa does not stick the way that rice does.

There are several methods that you can learn if you want to know how to cook quinoa perfectly. One thing that you need to remember is that it must be thoroughly rinsed prior to cooking. Once you have rinsed your quinoa, here three methods of cooking you can try.

Cooking on the Stovetop

While most recipes for cooking quinoa call for a one to two ratio between the seed and liquid, I think a far better ratio is one to one and a half. Bring the quinoa and liquid to a simmer and then reduce to low. Cook covered for 25 minutes, or until the water is absorbed. Allow to remain covered for an additional five minutes. Fluff and serve.

Cooking for Salad

I like to use a slightly different method when cooking quinoa to use for a quinoa salad. It is a bit more involved, but it delivers a seed that is just perfect for salad because it is a bit firmer. It also holds up well in the refrigerator for a few days.

Use one part quinoa and two parts liquid. Bring the liquid to a boil and add the quinoa. Boil, uncovered, for ten minutes. Remove from heat and drain your quinoa in a fine metal colander. Rinse under cool water. Bring fresh water to boil in a pot and place the quinoa on top of it in the strainer. Make sure that the strainer is not submerged in the water. Place a clean kitchen towel over the quinoa and cover with a lid. Steam the quinoa for 10 minutes. Be careful of the steam when you remove the lid and dish cloth.

Cooking Quinoa in the Oven

Most people don't realize that you can cook quinoa in the oven to be used as a crunchy topping for yogurt and fruit. To do this, you will want to preheat the oven to 375. Combine 1 cup of quinoa with 1 tablespoon of agave nectar and 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, until lightly browned. You will want to stir the quinoa every five minutes.