Learning how to cook quinoa will set you up for success with one of those superfoods that you can enjoy in several different meals. Add this quinoa to our Arugula Fig Walnut Salad for a hearty and nutrient-packed meal.
Quinoa has become popular for its versatility and nutritional benefits. Packed with protein and fiber, quinoa is great in salads and bowls, as a breakfast porridge, and as a side dish. In this article, we'll show you how to make the perfect quinoa.
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Quinoa is one of those “grains” I met later in life. I didn’t start using quinoa until I went plant-based and started experimenting with quinoa. What I love about this whole grain is that you can enjoy it savory or sweet, and it is an excellent substitute for rice.
Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, perfect for those with gluten intolerance, celiac disease, or following a gluten-free diet. It’s a versatile ingredient that can replace wheat-based grains like whole wheat pasta, barley, or farro.
Try making our Jamaican Rice and Peas, Jamaican Chickpea Curry, or our Jackfruit Jambalaya and substitute the rice with quinoa. Here’s how fast and easy you can make quinoa in the Instant Pot and on the stovetop.
Health Benefits
- Quinoa is a supergrain. It’s a great source of protein with all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein.
- This whole grain is high in dietary fiber, which supports digestion and gut health. The fiber content in quinoa helps with constipation, lowers cholesterol, and stabilizes blood sugar, making it great for those with diabetes or looking to improve their heart health.
- The protein-and-fiber combo in quinoa makes you feel full and satisfied while controlling hunger and calorie intake. Its low GI also supports balanced blood sugar, which helps with weight management.
- Quinoa contains the antioxidants quercetin and kaempferol, which help combat oxidative stress in the body. Antioxidants help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and other chronic health conditions.
- It’s a good source of magnesium, iron, phosphorus, manganese, zinc, and folate.
- As a nutritionist and lifestyle medicine professional, quinoa is a staple in my diet!
Ingredients for Perfectly Cooked Quinoa
- Quinoa: mild, slightly nutty flavor with a light, fluffy texture when cooked properly.
- Water: hydrates and softens the grain.
Substitutions and Variations
- Try tri-color, red, or black quinoa for slightly different textures and flavor.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor-great for savory uses.
- Add garlic powder, onion powder, cinnamon, or herbs while cooking.
- Toast quinoa in a dry skillet before cooking for a deeper, nuttier flavor.
How to Cook Quinoa in the Instant Pot
Rinse Quinoa
Place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water. This helps to remove the bitterness.
Add to Instant Pot
Combine the rinsed quinoa with water (1:1.5 ratio of quinoa to water).
Cook
Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to "Sealing." Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting, and set the timer for 3 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, do a quick release. Fluff with a fork and serve.
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How to Cook Quinoa on the Stovetop
Rinse Quinoa
Place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water.
Add to Pot
Add rinsed and drained quinoa to a pot with water (1:2 quinoa-to-water ratio), then bring to a boil.
Cook and Set
Reduce the heat to medium to cook uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes. Then, put the lid on and turn off the heat. Let it sit covered for at least 15 minutes to allow it to fully absorb the water. Don't remove the lid until the time is up! Fluff with a fork and serve.
Expert Tips
- Always rinse quinoa to avoid bitterness.
- Use slightly less water for a firmer quinoa
- Look for the “little tails” popping out. That’s how you know it’s done
- Batch cook and store for easy meals throughout the week
Serving Suggestions
- Use this quinoa in our Vegan Quinoa Breakfast Porridge, topped with fresh fruit and nuts.
- Our Curry Quinoa Chickpea Salad, Kale and Quinoa Salad, Mediterranean Salad, and Arugula Quinoa Salad all use this whole grain.
Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! Using vegetable broth adds extra flavor.
Mushy quinoa usually results from too much water. Be sure to stick to the 1:1.5 quinoa-to-water ratio for the Instant Pot and 1:2 for the stovetop, following the cooking instructions for best results.
Store leftover cooked quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Yes! You can add diced vegetables, garlic, or spices to both methods. Just ensure they don’t exceed the liquid amount required for cooking.
Yes, quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it a great alternative for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Once you master how to cook quinoa, you unlock one of the most versatile, healthy staples in your kitchen. It’s quick, nutrient-dense, and works with just about everything. Get the ratio right, don’t skip the rinse, and let it rest. That’s the difference between sad quinoa and chef-level fluffy perfection.
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How to Cook Quinoa
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry quinoa
- 1 ½ to 2 cups water use 1 ½ cups water for the Instant Pot, and 2 cups water for the stovetop
- Optional: salt and spices
Instructions
Instant Pot
- Cooking quinoa in the instant pot is a 1 to 1 ½ ratio of dry quinoa to water.
- Rinse the Quinoa: Place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water. This helps to remove the bitterness.
- Add to the Instant Pot: Combine the rinsed quinoa and water in your Instant Pot.
- Seal and Set: Close the lid and make sure the valve is set to "Sealing." Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting, and set the timer for 3 minutes.
- Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is complete, do a quick release.
- Fluff and Serve: Open the lid and use a fork to fluff the quinoa. Serve it as a base for your favorite dishes, or enjoy it on its own!
Stovetop
- Cooking quinoa on the stovetop uses a 1 to 2 ratio of dry quinoa to water. The reason why it's more water is that more of the water evaporates when cooked on the stovetop than in the Instant Pot.
- Rinse the Quinoa: Place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cold water.
- Cook the Quinoa: Add rinsed and drained quinoa to a pot with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium to cook uncovered for 2 to 3 minutes. Then, put the lid on and turn off the heat. Let it sit covered for at least 15 minutes to finish absorbing the water. Don't remove the lid until the time is up!
- Fluff and Serve: After 15 minutes, remove the lid and fluff with a fork and serve.
- Store leftover cooked quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Notes
EQUIPMENT / SUPPLIES
- Instant Pot or medium pot with lid
- Measuring cup
- Fine mesh strainer
- Fork to fluff
Kelvin says
So fast and the quinoa comes out flaky.
Gigi & Sersie says
Always comes out perfect.