Jasmine Rice or Quinoa

I have to say, I **love** quinoa. I only tried it a few days ago but I think it is seriously yummy.

I make it exactly they way I would make rice. I like how it doesn't clump up the way rice does. Even cold, the seeds stay very seperate.

I love quinoa; it's so versatile. I use it for cold salads, warm sides, but most often as my main dish. I just bring 1 &1/4 cups of water to boil then add 1 cup of quinoa and turn it down to simmer for 12 minutes. If I'm in a hurry, I'll just add a can of black beans, a can of fire roasted tomatoes, and a clove of garlic. Usually though, I like to use what fresh vegetables and herbs I have on hand. I have a number of recipes I'll be happy to share if you're interested.

Quinoa is prepared much like rice, with a ratio of 2 parts liquid (water/broth) to 1 part rinsed quinoa, cooks in 20-25 minutes. Be sure to rinse your quinoa before cooking as it has a coating that has a bitter taste and can cause a stomach upset.

I like quinoa better than rice, but it does have a flavor and texture difference that takes a little getting used to. I use it instead of rice in my soups and casseroles and as a side dish.

http://chetday.com/quinoa.html

def quinoa.. spanish quinoa
• 1 cup uncooked quinoa
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (8 ounce) can tomato sauce -- i use fresh tomatoes
• 2 1/2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin

quinoa not only tastes great but it's the only grain that is also a complete protein- meaning it has all the essential amino acids. to have a balanced diet in terms of amino acids, you'd otherwise have to eat your grain with a protein like beans or meat; quinoa, you don't have to!

Enjoy! it's awesome.