How To Cook Quinoa In A Rice Cooker

Types of Quinoa

• White Quinoa: The mildest flavor and lightest texture, making it versatile for any dish. It becomes particularly fluffy when cooked. (It's my choice for bowls and salads.)
• Red Quinoa: Holds its shape better after cooking and has a nuttier flavor. Great in salads where you want the quinoa to stay distinct.
• Black Quinoa: The earthiest flavor and most dramatic look, with a slightly crunchier texture.
• Tri-Color: A blend that gives you varied texture, color, and flavor in each bite.

About Rice Cookers Any basic rice cooker will work well for quinoa, but if you cook grains often, here are two reliable options:

• Budget-Friendly: The Aroma 4-cup rice cooker (makes up to 2 cups uncooked quinoa) is simple but effective, with a non-stick pot and white rice setting.
• Worth the Splurge: The Zojirushi 5.5-cup rice cooker (handles up to 2.5 cups uncooked quinoa) has multiple settings and a timer function – perfect if you like to start breakfast quinoa the night before.

Instructions

1. Combine quinoa, water and salt (if using) in your rice cooker and give it a quick stir. Select the white rice setting – 25-35 minutes depending on your machine. When it's finished cooking, let the quinoa rest for 5 minutes before you fluff with a fork. Serve as desired.

Notes

• If you're using pre-rinsed quinoa, no need to rinse again.

5 Recipe Tips

1. Measure Carefully: The right ratio of quinoa to water is crucial – too much water makes it mushy, too little leaves it crunchy.
2. About the Texture: Don't panic if your freshly cooked quinoa looks sticky or clumpy. If you measured correctly, the seeds will separate naturally as they cool.
3. Let it Rest: That 5-minute rest after cooking is essential – it lets the quinoa finish absorbing moisture and helps the seeds separate.
4. Perfect for Meal Prep: Cooked quinoa keeps well in the fridge for several days and can be served hot or cold.
5. Temperature Versatility: Quinoa tastes great warm, room temperature, or chilled, making it perfect for make-ahead dishes.

Recipe Options

• Cooking Liquid: Swap water for chicken or vegetable broth to add more flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: Add a sprig of thyme, rosemary, or bay leaf to the cooking liquid.
• Simple Seasonings: A drizzle of olive oil and squeeze of lemon brighten up plain quinoa.
• Mediterranean Style: Toss with olive oil, lemon juice, fresh herbs, and feta.
• Mexican Inspired: Add lime juice, cilantro, and a pinch of cumin.
• Asian Flavors: Try sesame oil, soy sauce, and rice vinegar.

Course: Side Dish. Cuisine: Mediterranean. By: Marissa Stevens Video: How to Cook Perfect Quinoa in a Rice Cooker