Quinoa Recipe

Inspired by Levant BBQ

Time35m

Serves3

Make Quinoa Recipe in just 35m. Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

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Ingredients

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1
Rinse the quinoa
Place 1 cup uncooked quinoa in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water for 20–30 seconds, rubbing the grains gently with your fingers. Drain well. Rinsing removes the natural bitter coating (saponin).
2
Toast (optional)
In a medium saucepan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon oil or butter. Add the rinsed quinoa and toast, stirring, for 2–3 minutes until it smells nutty and some grains begin to look translucent. This step improves flavor but can be skipped.
3
Add liquid and salt
Pour in 2 cups water or broth and add 1 teaspoon fine sea salt. Stir once to combine and bring the pot to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
4
Simmer covered
Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer gently for 15 minutes. Avoid lifting the lid during this time so steam cooks the quinoa evenly.
5
Rest off heat
After 15 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat but keep it covered. Let quinoa steam and rest for 5–10 minutes. This finishes cooking and fluffs the grains.

6
Fluff and season
Remove the lid and use a fork to gently fluff the quinoa, separating the grains. Stir in 1 teaspoon lemon juice (if using), 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or cilantro, and 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper.
7
Add garlic if desired
If using garlic: in a small skillet, warm a small amount of oil or butter over low heat, add 1 minced garlic clove and cook for 30–45 seconds until fragrant (do not brown). Stir the garlic and oil into the fluffed quinoa.
8
Adjust and serve
Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired. Serve warm as a side, base for bowls, or chilled in salads.