Quinoa Pilaf

Related recipes: Grains, In Great Taste, Olives, Onions, Side Dishes, Tomatoes, Vegetarian

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From In Great Taste
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Quinoa is a recently rediscovered ancient "grain," native to Central America, where it was once known as the "Gold of the Incas" for its ability to sustain the strength of their warriors. It has a fluffy, creamy, slightly crunchy texture and a nutty flavor when cooked that is a good complement to the flavors in this pilaf.

Preparation facts

Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

1 cup quinoa

2 cups (480 ml) vegetable broth

1 bay leaf

1 Tbs (15 ml) extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp kosher salt

1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper

1/2 tsp ground turmeric

1 tomato, finely chopped

1/2 red onion, peeled and finely chopped

1/2 cup pitted black olives (optional)

1/4 cup dried currants

1 tsp grated lemon zest

fresh mint leaves

Directions

Place the quinoa in a large sieve and rinse with cold water; drain. Transfer to a medium saucepan. Add the broth, bay leaf, oil, salt, pepper, and turmeric. Bring to a boil over medium heat, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove and discard the bay leaf.

Stir in the tomato, onion, olives (if using), currants, and lemon zest. Transfer to a serving dish and top with the mint.

Copyright © 2005 by Evelyn H. Lauder

Nutrition facts

Serving Size 1 serving
Calories 250
Calories from Fat 54 (22%)
% Daily Value*
9%Total Fat 6g
5%Saturated Fat 1g
30%Sodium 710mg
14%Total Carbohydrate 42g
16%Dietary Fiber 4g
14%Protein 7g
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Nutrition facts are calculated by a food expert using nutritional values provided by the USDA for common products used as recipe ingredients. Actual nutritional values may differ depending on the amounts or products used and can be affected by cooking methods.