What is Quinoa

Quinoa is the edible seed of the plant, Chenopodium quinoa, which belongs to the genus Chenopodium in the family Amaranthaceae. Though, commonly used as a cereal or food grain, quinoa is in fact a pseudocereal, which is derived from plants other than grasses. Almost all true cereals are grasses, but, quinoa does not belong to grass family. It is related to plants like, amaranthus, spinach, etc. and like these plants, the leaves of quinoa too are used as vegetables. However, the most common use of quinoa is in the form of food grain only.

More about Quinoa

Quinoa grains are almost flat with an oval shape and pointed tips. There are three types of quinoa that differ in color. This include white, red and black grains and these types slightly differ in flavor too. While, black ones are very rare, the common and regular variety is the white version. When cooked, quinoa has a soft, creamy texture and a mild nutty flavor. Even quinoa flour is widely used for culinary purposes.

Quinoa was one of the staple foods of the Incas in South America, before 6000 years. For them, it was a sacred crop. But, with the conquest of South America by the Spanish, this crop was ignored, as the latter did not allow the natives to cultivate quinoa. However, recently this food grain has regained its popularity as people started identifying its use and health benefits. It is cultivated in many parts of the world and is easily available in the market.

Quinoa Nutrition

Now, you have a basic idea about what is quinoa and where it originated. Although, not a whole grain, quinoa is used as whole grains and also as a replacement for white rice or wheat. It is also free of gluten and is easily digestible. When cooked, quinoa grains taste great and is also full of nutrition. It is a very good source of protein and the distinctiveness of quinoa is that it includes all nine essential amino acids too. High amounts of the amino acid lysine in this food grain is beneficial in tissue growth. Quinoa contains considerable amounts of minerals too. Around 40 grams of uncooked quinoa amounts to 160 calories, 30 grams carbohydrates, 6 grams protein, 3 grams of dietary fiber, 2 grams fat, 3 IU of vitamin E, 21 mcg of folate, etc. Quinoa grains have high mineral content too. The above said amount of quinoa contains 25 mg calcium, 89 mg magnesium, 174 mg phosphorous, 315 mg potassium, 0.96 mg manganese, etc.

Health Benefits of Quinoa

Quinoa being high in magnesium, is good for cardiovascular health, as magnesium relaxes blood vessels, thereby lowering the risks of high blood pressure and other heart problems. It is also said to have a good fiber content, which is said to be helpful in preventing breast cancer. It is also rich in insoluble fiber and so is recommended for gallbladder stone prevention in women. The copper and manganese content in quinoa grains help to boost the immune system and protects cells, especially, red blood cells, from damage. It is also said to be good for tackling asthma in children.

In short, quinoa is claimed to be a super food with various nutritional and health benefits. If you want to include it in your diet, gather some quinoa recipes and reap the benefits offered by this food item. However, make sure to soak and rinse the grains well before cooking, so as to remove the coating of saponins, which have laxative effects. Apart from that, saponins may make the meal slightly bitter in taste.