What is Quinoa exactly?
Quinoa A plant bearing seeds, which are not a true grain, but are used as one. Quinoa (pronounced “KEEN-wah”) is of the same botanical family as beets and produces clusters that contain thousands of tiny bead-shaped seeds that range in color from light beige to yellow to almost black. The plant can grow well in poor soil conditions, and favors cool climates and high altitudes, such as the Andes Mountains of South America. It was the most important grain for the Incan civilization. Much of the quinoa used in the United States is imported from South America. A small quantity of quinoa is cultivated on the slopes of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado. When cooked in water, the seeds increase in size significantly, swelling three or four-fold. The cooked seeds become tender, with a springy texture. Uncooked seeds have a crunchy texture and a flavor that may range from mild to slightly bitter. Quinoa will not overpower other ingredients as it complements rice, couscous, beans, stews, and other
