indian quinoa

did you know the incans were the first to cultivate quinoa? they believed that it increased their warriors’ stamina and improved recovery time. a true, ancient superfood.

just in case you are unfamiliar with quinoa (yikes) – it is a healthy protein source that is high in fiber, iron, and calcium. it is a great source of manganese and copper – minerals that act as antioxidants in your body to get rid of cancer and disease-causing substances. it also contains magnesium; known to help relax muscles, blood vessels, and blood pressure. it is essential on any dieters daily menu.

ingredients include: garam masala, sea salt, toasted almond slivers, chives, quinoa, golden raisins, sesame oil, celery, and bell peppers.

crisp-tender veggies.

my toshi, patiently waiting.

indian quinoa

ingredients:

2 cups quinoa (rinsed)

4 cups water

2 teaspoons garam masala

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 cup golden raisins

1 tablespoon sesame oil

3 stalks celery, finely diced

1 red bell pepper, finely diced

5 whole green onions, sliced diagonally

1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted (toast for 5-8 minutes on 350°F)

directions:

1. heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the quinoa. stir constantly for 10 minutes or until the moisture has evaporated and the quinoa is dry and fragrant.

2. in a saucepan combine 3 cups of water, 1 teaspoon of the garam masala, and the salt – bring to a boil over high heat. add the toasted quinoa and decrease the heat to medium-low to simmer (without stirring and covered with a lid) for 15 minutes – or until the liquid has evaporated and the quinoa is tender.

3. meanwhile, bring 1 cup of water to a simmer in a small saucepan. remove from heat, and add the raisins. leave to soak for 20 minutes and then drain well.

4. heat the sesame oil in a large skillet over medium heat. add the celery, bell pepper, and 1 teaspoon garam masala. saute for 2 minutes or until the veggies are crisp-tender. add the green onions and saute 1 minute longer, or until just wilted.

5. gently toss it all together, refridgerate until cold – and you got yourself a fancy ass picnic meal!

*adapted from real food daily – great blog. check ‘er out.

Tags: almonds, celery, chives, garam masala, golden raisins, incans, indian, indian quinoa, masala, quinoa, red bell pepper, salt, sea salt, sesame oil, sesame seed, slivered, toasted