Black Quinoa
Quinoa is a quick-cooking, grain-like seed with a mild, nutty flavor, fluffy consistency and a pleasant bite. Our Black Quinoa is a visually attractive, naturally dark colored quinoa with the same great flavor and complete nutritional value as white quinoa.
Suggested uses
Basic prep
Bring 2 cups water a boil. Add 1 cup black quinoa, reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes. The grain will pop and the outside germ will separate into a curly tail. Drain excess water and spread on a sheet pan to cool or use immediately.
Storage & handling
Store in a dry, cool place.
Ingredients
Black Quinoa.
Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is a grain-like seed which is a member of the Amaranth family of flowering plants (Amaranthaceae). It is native to the Andean region of South America, where it was a staple crop for the Inca, Aymara and other pre-Columbian people. The Quechua name for quinoa translates to "mother grain" or "super grain," due to its superior nutrition. Legend has it that the Incan emperor would plant the first quinoa seeds each year in a solemn annual ceremony—such was its importance to the Incan people. Quinoa is considered an ancient grain because it has not been altered for large-scale agriculture, and is the same variety grown for thousands of years.
Quinoa grows on three-to nine-foot tall magenta stalks. The large seed heads can be nearly any color—red, orange, purple, green, black and yellow are all common. The plant is resistant to drought and grows well in poor soils without irrigation or supplementation. The World Health Organization observes that quinoa is closer to the ideal protein balance than any other grain, equivalent to milk in protein and high in iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, vitamin E and certain B vitamins. It is also high in fiber and essential amino acids, but low in carbohydrates.
Quinoa has become popular in the U.S. and around the world, not only due to its impressive nutritional value but also its unique, delicate texture and flavor. When cooked, the thin germ that encircles the grain partially detaches from the seed and remains slightly crunchy, while the seed itself, pearly and translucent, becomes soft and fluffy. Quinoa has a slightly nutty flavor and is a good substitute for rice, couscous or bulgur in many dishes. It can also be ground into a flour for use in baking.
Quinoa comes in a range of colors. The most well-known variety is white, but red and black varieties are increasingly popular. Compared to white quinoa, black quinoa has a slightly earthier and sweeter flavor. Our quinoa has its natural, bitter-tasting saponin coating removed for quinoa that is ready to cook without rinsing.
Classic recipe
Black Quinoa and Roasted Root Vegetables
Black Quinoa has the distinctive nutty flavor and nutritional profile of other quinoa. The crunchier texture is an excellent compliment to tender roasted root vegetables. A drizzle of balsamic vinegar and spicy chile flakes givd this warm, healthy side dish a culinary edge
