Nutritional Value Of Quinoa

Quinoa, pronounced as ‘keen-waah’, is an ancient seed that is counted amongst cereal grains, but is less popular in kitchens, as compared to other grains. The food, however, is superior in nutrition, as compared to other cereals, because of its high protein content. Quinoa, in actual, is a species of goosefoot, which looks like grain, but is a relative of green leafy vegetables like spinach or beets. The food, hence, can easily slide in the category of pseudocereal, rather than a true cereal or grain. It is the seeds of the plant, with the scientific name ‘Chenopodium quinoa’, that are consumed by people.

 

Quinoa is native to the Andean region of South America and is grown at 10,000 to 20,000 feet above sea level. It is widely available in North America as well, where it is grown in the Canadian prairies and the Colorado Rockies, but South America remains the major exporter throughout the US. Cooked quinoa seeds are fluffy, creamy and little crunchy, with a somewhat nutty flavor. The seeds are available in different colors, like purple, pink, red, orange, and black, along with the usual transparent yellow color. They serve as an excellent source of vitamins, protein, fats, minerals, phosphorus, manganese, potassium, carbohydrates and fiber. To know more about the nutrition value present in Quinoa, go through the Food Rating Chart given below.

 

Amount of Quinoa: 0.25 cup

Total Weight of Quinoa: 42.50 g