Quinoa – The Cherished Incan Superfood

You’ve probably heard of quinoa by now.  But what exactly is it, and what makes it so great?  Quinoa was once revered by the Incans living in the Andes Mountains.  This grain (in fact, it is really a seed) contains all eight life-sustaining amino acids, including lysine, which is lacking in many other grain crops.  Quinoa also delivers a great source of protein.  In one cup of cooked quinoa, you will find 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber.  All for about 220-calories.  Quinoa is also low on the glycemic index, a 35 compared to brown rice’s 50 and whole wheat pasta’s 40.  This means that your body will increase its blood sugar levels slower when eating quinoa, making you feel fuller, longer.  

Quinoa is cooked similar to rice, and its faint nutty flavor can be boosted by cooking it with some olive oil, or adding some vegetables or chopped nuts to the dish.  It’s a great choice for both vegetarians (with all its extra protein) and for those on a gluten-free diet (since it contains no gluten or wheat).  Next time you’re thinking about making rice, swap in quinoa instead, for a healthier choice.

At Atlanta Personal Chef Service, we often include quinoa in our menus. Our clients love it, and we know you will too! Check out our sample menus here.