5 Irresistible Quina Recipes for Home Cooks

Delving into the heart of Brazilian cuisine, Quina, or Kinoa as often misspelled in non-Portuguese cultures, emerges as a treasure trove of nutritional benefits and culinary versatility. Not just a health food, Quina has captivated home cooks worldwide with its ability to adapt to various flavors and dishes. Here, we present five irresistible recipes that will not only elevate your cooking skills but also introduce you to the diverse tastes of this ancient grain.

Quina Salad with Mango and Avocado

This vibrant salad is a refreshing mix of flavors, combining the creaminess of avocado, the sweet-tangy taste of mango, and the nutty texture of Quina. It’s perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish at your next barbecue:

• 1 cup Quina, rinsed
• 2 cups water
• 1 mango, diced
• 1 avocado, diced
• ¹⁄₂ red onion, finely chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Boil the Quina in water until it blooms, then let it cool.
2. Combine Quina with mango, avocado, onion, and cilantro.
3. Drizzle lime juice over the salad, add salt and pepper, and mix gently to combine.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Savory Quina Fritters

Fritters are a delightful way to integrate Quina into your meals, offering a crispy outside with a tender, flavorful center:

• 1 cup cooked Quina
• ¹⁄₂ cup grated cheese (e.g., Parmesan or cheddar)
• 1 egg, beaten
• 2 spring onions, finely sliced
• ¹⁄₄ cup chopped parsley
• Salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings

Preparation:

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing bowl.
2. Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat.
3. Form small patties or balls from the mixture and fry until golden brown on both sides.
4. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.

🍳 Note: Ensure the Quina is well-drained before adding to the batter to prevent excess moisture in the fritters.

Spiced Quina Porridge

Turn your breakfast into a cozy meal with this spiced Quina porridge, a delightful alternative to oats with a taste that transports you to South American streets:

• 1 cup Quina
• 2 cups milk or almond milk
• 1 cinnamon stick
• ¹⁄₂ tsp nutmeg
• 2 tbsp maple syrup or honey
• Pinch of salt

Preparation:

1. Combine Quina, milk, cinnamon stick, and nutmeg in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally until Quina is cooked (about 15-20 minutes).
3. Add sweetener and a pinch of salt, stir, and cook for a further 2 minutes.
4. Remove cinnamon stick before serving. Optionally, top with fresh fruit or nuts.

Quina and Black Bean Bowl

This hearty bowl is a complete meal, rich in protein and fiber, perfect for those looking for a sustainable diet option:

• 1 cup Quina, rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 sweet potato, cubed and roasted
• ¹⁄₂ red pepper, sliced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt
• Cilantro for garnish

Preparation:

1. Cook Quina in broth according to package instructions.
2. Combine Quina, beans, roasted sweet potato, and red pepper in a serving bowl.
3. Top with avocado slices, a dollop of sour cream or yogurt, and cilantro.

🥑 Note: Avocado can quickly turn brown once cut. For a fresher presentation, cut the avocado just before serving or toss slices in lemon juice to maintain their vibrant green color.

Quina Stuffed Bell Peppers

Stuffed bell peppers are not only visually appealing but also a delicious way to enjoy Quina in a hearty dish:

• 4 large bell peppers, tops removed and seeds discarded
• 1 cup cooked Quina
• 1 can corn, drained
• 1 cup cooked ground turkey or plant-based meat
• ¹⁄₂ cup salsa
• ¹⁄₂ cup shredded cheese
• Salt and cumin to taste

Preparation:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Mix Quina, corn, ground turkey, salsa, and seasoning in a bowl.
3. Stuff peppers with the mixture and place in a baking dish.
4. Bake for about 30 minutes, top with cheese, and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until cheese is melted.

These five recipes showcase the versatility of Quina, allowing you to explore different tastes from savory to sweet, making it an essential ingredient in your pantry. Whether you are following a vegetarian, vegan, or omnivorous diet, Quina can adapt seamlessly. The dishes are not only easy to prepare but also offer a burst of flavors, colors, and nutrients, making your home-cooked meals both exciting and healthful.

Is Quina gluten-free?

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Yes, Quina is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

How do you pronounce “Quina”?

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Quina is pronounced “key-NAH,” similar to “quinoa.”

What are the health benefits of Quina?

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Quina is rich in protein, fiber, and essential amino acids. It also contains antioxidants and can help manage blood sugar levels due to its low glycemic index.

Can I substitute Quina with other grains?

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While each grain has its unique profile, you can use other grains like bulgur, farro, or rice, though the taste and texture will differ from Quina.

How can I make Quina less bitter?

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Rinse Quina thoroughly before cooking to remove the saponins, the compounds responsible for its bitter taste.