Grocery
Tricolor Quinoa Grains
What it is
This is a blend of three varieties of quinoa: white, red, and black. Each type of quinoa has a slightly different texture and flavor profile, contributing to a more complex and visually appealing dish. Quinoa is a seed that is prepared and eaten like a grain.
How people cook with it
Tricolor quinoa can be used as a versatile base for many meals or as a flavorful addition to existing dishes.
- Side dish for main courses
- Salad ingredient
- Breakfast porridge
- Grain bowls
To prepare tricolor quinoa, rinse the grains thoroughly under cold water using a fine-mesh sieve. This step helps remove saponins, which can give quinoa a bitter taste. Combine one part rinsed quinoa with two parts liquid, such as water or broth, in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is tender. Let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
How it differs from similar foods
Compared to single-variety quinoa, the tricolor blend offers a more varied eating experience. The white quinoa is typically mild and fluffy, the red quinoa has a slightly firmer texture and nuttier taste, and the black quinoa is often the chewiest with a subtly sweet flavor. This combination also provides a more attractive presentation.
How to keep the rest
Store any unused cooked tricolor quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Uncooked quinoa should be kept in its original packaging or an airtight container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain freshness.