Power Grains Recipe
Grain mix of quinoa and brown rice. (GF, V)
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Ingredients
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Grain Mix
Aromatics & Seasoning
Finish / Optional Add-ins
Method
Grain Mix
Rinse and combine
Place the rinsed quinoa and rinsed brown rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water for 30–60 seconds, rubbing the grains lightly with your fingers. Drain well. Transfer the rinsed grains to a medium saucepan.
Add liquid and salt
Add 3 cups of low-sodium vegetable broth (or water) and 1 tsp sea salt to the saucepan with the grains. Stir once to combine.
Bring to a simmer
Set the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the liquid to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low so the liquid simmers gently. Cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid.
Simmer gently
Cook covered for 35–40 minutes, or until the brown rice is tender and the quinoa has popped open and absorbed the liquid. At around 30 minutes check: if liquid is fully absorbed and rice is tender, remove from heat; if still firm with liquid, continue 3–5 minutes and check again.
Steam and rest
When cooked, remove the pan from heat and keep covered. Let the grains steam for 10 minutes off the heat—this firms texture and helps separate the grains.
Fluff
Uncover and fluff the grains gently with a fork to separate the quinoa and rice without crushing them.
Aromatics & Seasoning
Sauté aromatics
While the grains cook, heat 1 tbs extra-virgin olive oil in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the finely minced shallot (or onion) and sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook 30–45 seconds more until fragrant, being careful not to brown the garlic.
Combine with grains
Once the grains are fluffed and still warm, transfer them to a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed shallot and garlic (including any oil from the pan), 1 tbs fresh lemon juice, 2 tbs chopped parsley, and 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to combine, tasting and adjusting seasoning with a pinch more salt if needed.
Finish / Optional Add-ins
Add texture and finish
If using, stir in 2 tbs toasted sunflower seeds or chopped toasted almonds for crunch. Drizzle 1 tsp extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes if desired for a touch of heat. Toss gently to incorporate.
Serve
Transfer the Power Grains to a warmed serving bowl. Garnish with an extra tablespoon of chopped parsley if you like. Serve warm or at room temperature as a side dish.