Foolproof Fluffy Quinoa Recipes

PERFECT QUINOA

Steps:

• Rinse the quinoa: Pour the quinoa into a fine mesh colander and rinse under running water for at least 30 seconds. Drain well. This step removes any bitterness on the outside of the quinoa (caused by naturally occurring saponins).
• Combine the rinsed quinoa and water in a saucepan. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then decrease the heat a bit to maintain a gentle simmer. Cook until the quinoa has absorbed all of the water, about 10 to 20 minutes (small amounts of quinoa will be ready closer to 10 minutes; larger amounts between 15 to 20). Reduce heat as time goes on to maintain a gentle simmer.
• Remove the pot from heat, cover, and let the quinoa steam for 5 minutes. This step gives the quinoa time to pop open into little curlicues, so it's nice and fluffy. Remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork. Season with salt, to taste, unless you're proceeding with another recipe as written.

PERFECT QUINOA

Steps:

• Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve under cold water, swishing the quinoa with your hands to rinse equally for about 30 seconds. Let drain.
• Bring the water or broth, the olive oil, bay leaf and 1 1/2 teaspoons salt to boil in a medium saucepan. Add the quinoa and stir. Bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low so the quinoa is just simmering. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and let rest 5 minutes.
• Fluff the quinoa with a fork. Season with salt and pepper. Remove and discard the bay leaf. If you are making the quinoa ahead, spread while hot on a baking sheet lined with parchment to stop the cooking as it cools. Once cool, refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days.