Description
A wholesome and flavorful quinoa recipe perfect as a nutritious substitute for pearl barley. This dish features sautéed onions and garlic toasted quinoa, simmered in vegetable or chicken broth, delivering a tender, aromatic, and versatile grain option for various meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh herbs, such as parsley or thyme
Instructions
- Rinse Quinoa: Rinse the quinoa under cold water using a fine-mesh strainer to remove any bitterness and impurities, ensuring a clean and pleasant taste.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, then sauté them until they become translucent and fragrant, for about 2-3 minutes.
- Toast Quinoa: Add the rinsed quinoa to the skillet and toast it for 1-2 minutes while stirring occasionally, allowing it to turn lightly golden and enhancing its nutty flavor.
- Simmer Quinoa: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer gently for 15-20 minutes until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Season and Serve: Season the cooked quinoa with salt and pepper according to your taste. If desired, stir in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme to add a fresh aroma and flavor before serving.
Notes
- Quinoa is a great gluten-free and protein-rich alternative to pearl barley.
- For a vegetarian or vegan dish, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Make sure to rinse quinoa thoroughly to avoid bitterness.
- Fresh herbs can be customized according to your preference.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
