Welcome back Yummy Amigos!

Although my family and I strive to eat primarily whole foods consisting of fruits and veggies, we do indulge in various Gluten-Free grains, seeds and nuts.

Quinoa… is another Super-Food I had never even heard of until my adulthood. I think I pretty much was in a big fat bubble while I lived in my small town in Texas!!!

Quinoa… pronounced keen-wah, was considered an Ancient Food by the Inca Empire. The Quinoa crop was actually considered sacred by the Inca, how cool is that?

So not only is Quinoa Gluten-Free, it is also considered one of the special complete protein type of foods. Yes, it actually contains the 9 essential amino acids the body needs! Wow, my family and I totally missed the boat on this ride!!! Yep, Quinoa is loaded with Protein, Fiber and Minerals!

Now before we get too excited, it is important to point out that although it is technically Gluten-Free, it’s chemical structure mimics that of gluten, so it does seem to affect many Celiacs in the same manner… so proceed with caution!

In addition to being loaded with Magnesium, Iron and Zinc, it is pretty high in carbs, so please be cognizant if you are on a low carb or no carb diet. If you are diabetic, it does seem to convert to sugar pretty rapidly, so watch it baby! 😉

Although there are about 120 different types of this pseudo-grain, the yummiest types appear to be the Red, White and Black Quinoa. Although we cook and use it as a grain, it actually is a sprouted seed that is more like a Beet than a grain! Who knew?!?

So the big question for mommies & daddies is, will the kids eat it?!? Yes, yes, yes!!! Black quinoa tends to have an “earthier” and sweeter taste, but my kids prefer the red and yellow.

I pretty much use the same 2:1 ratio instructions I use when cooking rice. Most Quinoa packages come with easy instructions. Here is a yummy yummy Baby-Friendly recipe I use when serving it to my family!

It is critical that you rinse and soak your Quinoa for a minimum of 30 minutes. Quinoa can be dirty and taste bitter if you don’t rinse it well.

Heat 2 Cups of Water or Broth or Coconut Water to just boiling.

Add 1 Cup of Clean Raw Quinoa.

Cover and reduce heat to simmer for 15 minutes.

Turn heat off and allow to sit for an additional 10 to 15 minutes (until liquid is absorbed).

While the Quinoa is cooking, I sautee our favorite veggies in 2-3 Tablespoons of Veggie Broth and Sea Salt.

Once the veggies and quinoa are ready, I fluff up the Quinoa with a fork, mix it all with 1-2 Tablespoons of Coconut Butter and Sea Salt and it’s ready to eat!

🌴 Another option for lil ones it to add Fresh Young Thai Coconut Chunks!

*Big Kid Options

🌿 Fresh Rosemary in Sautéed Veggies
🌿 Diced Tomatoes
🌿 Black or White Pepper
🌿 Minced Garlic in Veggies
🌿 Coconut Liquid Aminos (Soy Sauce)
🌿 Chopped Red Onions
🌿 Chopped Bell Peppers
🌿 Diced Cucumbers
🌿 Lemon Juice

🌱 Chopped Tofu

Quinoa can be served hot or cold and with your favorite dressing! The possibilities are endless… 🙂

I know you and your lil ones will really enjoy this Yummy Ancient Food!

See ya soon my friends! Xoxo
~ Dr. Dee