Quinoa (pronounced "keen-wa") is a relatively unknown grain rich in protein, minerals and vitamins. It developed in the Andes region of South America and was cultivated 5,000 to 6,000 years ago by the Inca, who called it the "mother seed" or "mother grain" and considered it a holy crop. Today, quinoa is useful as an alternative food for allergy sufferers and is considered a "super-crop" by the United Nations. (1)
Quinoa is Not a True Grain
Although quinoa is generally considered a "grain" because it is prepared and served like one, the crop itself is not a grass like other cereal grains. Chenopodium quinoa is related to beets, spinach and swiss chard. Although the leafy greens are edible and can be eaten like chard or spinach, they don't ship well. The only quinoa readily available outside of South America is the seed, which is usually cooked and served like a cereal grain.
Quinoa's "grain" has a mild nutty flavor and a fluffy texture similar to couscous. It prepares well as part of salads, soup, whole grain breads, and combines with other grains to yield good bread or pasta. It can be cooked like rice, and may be seasoned, added to other dishes, or served as a nutritious breakfast like oatmeal or other hot cereals.
Quinoa's Super Nutrition
Quinoa is known for its high protein content, but there's a lot more to this almost-grain than that! Quinoa is:
- higher in protein than any other grain: quinoa is 16% protein compared to 7.5% in rice, 10% in millet and 14% from wheat (1)
- contains all of the essential amino acids, making it a "complete protein," unlike true grains
- a good source of dietary fiber
- rich in E and B vitamins
- high in minerals including calcium, iron, copper, phosphorus, magnesium and manganese
Celiac Disease
Although sources vary on whether quinoa is completely gluten-free or only low in gluten, it is considered a safe grain for many people with gluten allergies or celiac disease, who cannot safely consume gluten (a protein found in wheat and most other grains).
Quinoa and Grain Allergies
Quinoa is also highly recommend for allergy sufferers. Even those with grain allergies can usually digest quinoa because it is so uncommon in the modern industrialized diet, lowering the incidence of sensitization allergies.
Other Quinoa Factoids:
- Quinoa may be considered Kosher for Passover, since it is not a true grain and is not specifically forbidden to Jews during Pesach
- Quinoa is under contemplation by NASA to be used in long-duration spaceflights because of its balanced nutrition
Reference
(1) Zwieg-Vandenengel, Lisa, "Quinoa". The Food Network, last accessed August 8, 2008.
(2) "World's Healthiest Foods." George Mateljan Foundation, last accessed August 8, 2008.
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