Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is a grain-like seed which is a member of the Amaranth family of flowering plants (Amaranthaceae). It is native to the Andean region of South America, where it was a staple crop for the Inca, Aymara and other pre-Columbian peoples. The Quechua name for quinoa translates to 'mother grain' or 'super grain,' due to its superior nutrition. Legend has it that the Incan emperor would plant the first quinoa seeds each year in a solemn annual ceremonysuch was its importance to the Incan people. Quinoa is considered an ancient grain because it has not been altered for large-scale agriculture, and is the same variety grown for thousands of years.
Quinoa grows on three-to nine-foot tall magenta stalks. The large seed heads can be nearly any colorred, orange, purple, green, black and yellow are all common. The plant is resistant to drought and grows well in poor soils without irrigation or supplementation. The World Health Organization observes that quinoa is closer to the ideal protein balance than any other grain, equivalent to milk in protein and high in iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, vitamin E and certain B vitamins. It is also high in fiber and essential but low in carbohydrates.
Quinoa has become popular in the U.S. and around the world, not only due to its impressive nutritional profile but also its unique, delicate texture and flavor. When cooked, the thin germ that encircles the grain partially detaches from the seed and remains slightly crunchy, while the seed itself, pearly and translucent, becomes soft and fluffy. Quinoa has a slightly nutty flavor and is a good substitute for rice, couscous or bulgur in many dishes. It can also be ground into a flour for use in baking.
Quinoa comes in a range of colors. The most well-known variety is white, but red and black varieties are increasingly popular. Compared to white quinoa, the red variety holds its shape slightly better after cooking, while black quinoa has a slightly earthier and sweeter flavor. Our quinoa has its natural, bitter-tasting saponin coating removed for quinoa that is ready to cook without rinsing.
We source high-quality Quinoa from regions where it has been grown for thousands of years. Renowned worldwide for its taste and nutrition, it is a versatile, naturally gluten-free grain with a unique texture and mild, nutty flavor.
Nutty,clean flavor
Tiny gold colored grains with black specs
Naturally gluten free
Weight: 10.5 Lb- SKU: WNDF1133
