The quinoa grain is considered to be a high protein grain and surprisingly to many is also a complete protein source.
The health benefits of quinoa make it a very attractive food for Vegans and gluten free people who want to include more protein in their diets.
What is Quinoa? Quinoa is an Ancient food of the Inca Indians and is native to the Andes.
This high protein grain is technically a seed and it is related to leafy greens such as spinach and swiss chard (which means it's probably high in oxalic acid). I call it a pseudo grain.
Being one of the best sources of protein in the plant world is definitely one of the health benefits of quinoa.
The quinoa grain or quinoa seed can grow in harsh environments. And quinoa comes in different colors such as yellow, red, brown, and black
This high protein grain or seed has a unique coating called saponin that serves to protect it from the birds and the environment.
If the saponins aren't removed, quinoa will have a bitter taste and will be somewhat toxic.
If the quinoa that you purchased, has not had its saponins removed - simply put quinoa into a fine sieve and rinse under cold running water for a few minutes.
Then ferment for a day or two.
This helps to make quinoa more nutritious by removing it's anti-nutrients, so that you can enjoy the health benefits of quinoa.
Soaking quinoa in acidic water for 12 to 24 hours will help to break down anti-nutrients found in the quinoa grain.
Then I would drain the soaking water and rinse quinoa before soaking again in clean acidic water for another day.
Then drain and rinse in a fine sieve before cooking.
Your quinoa will then have a better texture when cooked and it can easily be used as a replacement for other grains - especially rice.
And you could even make a porridge with your soaked quinoa.