How to Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot

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I get it. You have an Instant Pot or you’re thinking of getting an Instant Pot because you’re inspired by all the delicious recipes you see on the internet. However, you’re experienced in the more traditional cooking involving a stove and a pot or pan. Especially when it comes to How To Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot. No problem. You’ve come to the right place!

How To Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot

Quinoa (pronounced “keen-waa”) is gluten-free, high in protein and contains sufficient amounts of all nine essential amino acids. Quinoa is an excellent alternative to traditional rice that provides a different taste and texture to your dinner options.

How long does it take to cook quinoa in an Instant Pot?

It takes only about 1 minute to cook quinoa in the Instant Pot! And who doesn’t have time for that? You can literally prepare this simple meal or side dish in less time than it takes you to pop a bag of popcorn in the microwave.

Do you need to rinse quinoa before eating it?

Yes, I always recommend giving it a good rinse before cooking it because there is a coating on it that can give it a bitter aftertaste. It’s just easier to wash it quickly than have to worry about it affecting the taste and flavor of the food later.

How long can you keep leftover quinoa in the fridge?

Once it’s cooked, it can last up to one week in the fridge. This is taking into the consideration that you have it stored in an airtight container and are keeping it at a cool and optimal temperature.

Can you freeze quinoa for later?

You can! Don’t throw away those leftovers! If you make a bigger batch than you can eat, simply place it in a freezer safe container, label it, and toss it in the freezer for later. Why the label? So you know what’s in the container, how long it’s been in the freezer, and you don’t have to guess.

How To Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot

History of Quinoa

Quinoa was referred to by the Incas as “the mother of all grains.” It is believed that quinoa was first cultivated approximately 5,000 years ago. However, quinoa is an Andean plant which originated in the area surrounding Lake Titicaca in Peru and Bolivia. Although quinoa was a staple food at the time, it was replaced by cereals upon the arrival of the Spanish during that time period.

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How did quinoa become popular?

Quinoa became popular because of its health value. It contains twice the protein of other types of food sources like rice and is also a good source of calcium, magnesium, B vitamins, and the list goes on. This super food is quite popular with vegans also. (Note: You may also love my Mexican Red Beans & Quinoa recipe!)

How To Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot

How many types of quinoa are there?

Currently there are over 120 different types of quinoa that are known. These vary in colors of red, white and black and are used in varying countries all over the world.

Can you eat quinoa raw?

While you can technically eat it raw, it offers a better taste to cook it. Imagine eating a handful of raw rice. It’s just not that appealing. Plus, other health benefits tend to happen when you take the time to cook it and add it into your diet.

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Can quinoa be eaten cold?

Of course! Some people actually prefer cold or lukewarm. You can enjoy it cold as a leftover or even eat it like cereal in the morning time. Some people also like to toss in some nuts and treat it like a cold salad to enjoy during the summer months.

No matter how you decide to eat this recipe, just make certain that you do!

How To Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot

Yields – 2 cups

Ingredients to make instant Pot quinoa

How To Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot

1 cup of Red Quinoa or White Quinoa
1 cup of Water
½ teaspoon of Salt

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Instructions to make quinoa in the instant pot

Quinoa seeds contain a naturally occurring coating of ‘saponin’ that repels bugs and insects and gives a bitter aftertaste to quinoa. To get rid of this, wash the quinoa thoroughly and drain it before using.

How To Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot

Place the washed and drained quinoa in the Instant Pot insert.

Add a cup of water and salt.

How To Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot

Select the “Pressure Cook” mode and adjust the time, with the “- / +” to 1 minute.

How To Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot

When Instant Pot beeps, let the pressure release naturally.

How To Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot

Fluff the quinoa with a fork and used in your favorite recipe.

How To Cook Quinoa In The Instant Pot

Notes

You can use chicken stock or vegetable stock to cook the quinoa instead of water. This will give more flavor to the quinoa. Also if using stock, skip the salt.

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Is it possible to over cook quinoa?

Many people try to prepare this dish on the stove and this is where overcooking or undercooking can happen.

This is why taking the time to make this dish in your Instant Pot, or pressure cooker is such a great idea! You simply set the timer and forget about it for a minute! Your Instant Pot will take control and cook it perfectly every single time.

Cooking With Quinoa: the Supergrain

What would you serve with cooked quinoa?

You can honestly serve anything that you want. I use quinoa as a side dish for salmon, burgers, ribs, steaks, and even in salads.

Plus, since many people use it as an alternative to rice, think Mexican dishes! You can easily use quinoa in tacosor as a “base” to go with your chicken and refried beans.

Quinoa has such a unique texture and taste that it’s quite versatile to go with a wide variety of main dishes.

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I can’t recommend making this Instant Pot Quinoa enough. It’s one of those simple additions to any meal that can add a big punch of much-needed protein.

If you’re running late but need a side dish to bring to a church luncheon or get together with friends, this is the perfect dish for you. Once you make this easy side dish in your Instant Pot once, it will be a mainstay in your menu for an incredibly long time.

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