Posted on 26th Sep 2010 @ 5:08 AM

Quinoa is a grain, known as the "super grain" among specialists, is high in protein and amino acids needed to supplement the daily diet, with very low level of fat, cholesterol free and gluten-free. From a strictly botanical point of view Quinoa is a pseudo-cereal, although considred as such from a practical standpoint because its uses are similar to those of a cereal. Quinoa has grown in the Andean region in South America since at least 3000 years bc. 

Used by the Incas in Quechua, quinoa means 'mother grain' and was considered sacred. When Pizarro colonized this part of South America, quinoa cultivation was prohibited in an attempt to eradicate the native culture. Despite this, quinoa is still a major crop in many regions of South America.

La quinoa is a grain with high protein, with about de10 grams of protein per serving (62gr). This is 16% of its weight in protein, higher than oats and wheat (which on average have between 12 and 14%). Since quinoa contains a good balance of all essential amino acids, it provides complete protein. It is also a good source of calcium, iron, phosphorus and vitamin B.

Since it is a food of high quality protein, quinoa is used by NASA as part of the diet nutrition of astronautas. In its natural state quinoa seeds are coated with a layer of resin soap called 'saponin'. This substance generates a thick, bitter taste to the cooked grain, which is why, quinoa, once harvested, is subject to a washing process to remove the saponin. 

Quinoa is an excellent ingredient to be added into breads, muffins and puddings to give extra protein to the recipe. For this, it is recommended to cook it first and replace a cup of flour or grain from the original recipe and replace it with quinoa flour.

Many recipes remain very delicious when replacing its side dishes with quinoa made risottos, stews or even desserts such as quinoa pudding or custard quinoa.

You can buy quinoa from http://www.productosperuanosonline.com/products/Quinoa-%28Quinua%29-Belmont-%252d-15-oz..html or find some delicious quinoa recipes and ideas on how to cook quinoa at: http://www.productosperuanosonline.com/recetas/?recipe-categories=quinoa