Quinoa grains are the seeds of a plant related to spinach and beets.
Native Americans began cultivating both corn and quinoa thousands of years ago. Quinoa was a staple food for the ancient Incans; the name means "mother grain" in their language, according to Purdue University. You can use quinoa as a gluten-free alternative to popcorn, though it will not pop as large as popcorn because the grain is smaller. The method for popping quinoa resembles the method for air-popping popcorn. In addition to eating it on its own, you can add popped quinoa to granola or cereal.
Instructions
1. Place the desired amount of quinoa in a strainer and run water over it to rinse off the bitter coating. This is unnecessary if your quinoa is prerinsed; the package should state whether it is.
2. Allow the quinoa to dry.
3. Heat the skillet over medium-high heat and add the quinoa in a single layer.
4. Shake the skillet or stir the quinoa continually to keep it from burning.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat as soon as you notice a roasting smell. Immediately move the quinoa to a bowl.
6. Spray the quinoa with vegetable oil or butter-flavored spray and sprinkle it with salt. Toss the quinoa to coat it evenly.
Tags: