How to Cook Quinoa (3 Ways!)
Learn how to cook quinoa on the stovetop, in a rice cooker, and in an Instant Pot. With our failproof methods, you’ll end up with fluffy, flavorful quinoa every single time!
We make a lot of grain bowls in our house. And while we love Basmati rice, we sometimes prefer to switch it up with quinoa from time to time. Unique in texture with a slightly nutty taste, it’s a great way to add a different flavor. Plus, quinoa provides even more nutrients, fiber, and protein than rice!
Add it to your meal prep lineup, and use it in all your favorite meals!
What is Quinoa?
If you’re unfamiliar, quinoa, pronounced keen-wah, is a type of pseudograin. This just means that it’s not actually a grain but is eaten similarly to other grains like rice and cereal. It’s also nutritionally similar to whole grains and is naturally gluten-free.
An ancient grain, quinoa has been grown for over 7,000 years and originally comes from the Andes. However, today it is grown throughout the globe. You can find over 3,000 different types of quinoa!
No matter the variety, quinoa is a nutrient powerhouse, offering a complete protein source (meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids), vitamins, minerals, and fiber, including:
- Manganese
- Magnesium
- Phosphorous
- Folate
- Copper
- Iron
As a result, it makes for an excellent addition to a well-rounded diet!
The Most Common Types of Quinoa
While there are endless types of quinoa, the most popular varieties include red, black, white quinoa, and tri-color. Each color of quinoa option has a slightly different taste and texture, but it’s so subtle you probably wouldn’t notice.
They’re all tender and mildly nutty when cooked properly. As a result, you can use any quinoa you have on hand!
How to Cook Quinoa (3 Ways)
Below is an overview of how to cook quinoa on the stove, in a rice cooker, and in an Instant Pot. Be sure to scroll down to the recipe card below for the complete details!
TIP: No matter which cooking method you choose, you’ll want to make sure to rinse and drain your quinoa through a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear! Or, skip this step if using pre-rinsed quinoa.
How to Cook Quinoa in an Instant Pot
How to Cook Quinoa on the Stove
- Combine the rinsed quinoa and water (or broth) in a medium pot on the stove.
- Bring the liquid to a boil. Then, cover, and simmer over medium heat until the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes to 20 minutes. The exact cooking time will vary slightly.
- Remove the pot from the heat, and let the quinoa rest.
- Then, fluff it with a fork, and getcha some of that!
How to Cook Quinoa in a Rice Cooker
- Combine the quinoa and water (or broth) in a rice cooker.
- Cover, and turn on the device, letting the quinoa cook until the water is absorbed.
- Let the quinoa stand for a few minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Common Questions
Quinoa is soooo versatile! Serve it on its own as a side dish. Or, add mix-ins like dried fruit or chopped nuts for a slightly sweeter taste. You can also enjoy it like cereal, add it to soups and stews, or use it in quinoa salads.
Go ahead and make an extra batch or two to keep on hand and freeze for later. Quinoa stores incredibly well! Once cool, you can transfer leftovers to an airtight container, and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days.
Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 6-8 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, and reheat it in the microwave when you’re ready to serve. Super easy!
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How to Cook Quinoa
Equipment
- 1 Medium Pot
- 1 Rice Cooker
- 1 Instant Pot
Ingredients
- 1 cup uncooked quinoa rinsed and drained*
- 2 cups water or broth
Instructions
Stovetop:
- Rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.1 cup uncooked quinoa
- Combine the quinoa and water (or broth) in a medium pot, and bring the liquid to a boil over high heat.2 cups water or broth
- Cover the pot, reduce the heat to medium, and simmer until the water is absorbed, about 15 minutes.
- Remove the pot from the heat, and let the quinoa stand, covered, for 10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, and getcha some of that!
Rice Cooker:
- Rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
- Combine the quinoa and water (or broth) in a rice cooker.
- Cover, and turn on the rice cooker. Cook for about 30 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
- Let stand for about 10 minutes. Then, fluff with a fork, and serve.
Instant Pot:
- Rinse the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
- Combine the quinoa and water (or broth) in a 6-quart Instant Pot.
- Secure the lid, and pressure cook on HIGH for 1 minute. NOTE: It will take a few minutes for the Instant Pot to come to pressure!
- Allow the pressure to release naturally.
- Carefully remove the lid, fluff with a fork, and serve.
Notes
- serving size = 20 grams (cooked)
- Carbohydrates = 43 grams
- Fat = 4 grams
- Protein = 9 grams
