What is quinoa - types, healthy properties and it's benefits

 Quinoa-types, healthy properties and it's benefits

In this post, we are going to discuss "Quinoa". Quinoa is pronounced as KEEN-WAH. It is a complete source of protein, fiber, vitamin B, iron and many more and it is also gluten-free that's why quinoa is considered as a superfood. Quinoa comes from the amaranth family. this plan is native of the Peruvian Andes mountains, quinoa is used in Peru, chile, and bolivia or we can say almost in all parts of Southern America as a cereal but technicaly it is not a grain.

What is quinoa in actually?

Most of the information about quinoa is well-known but people still get confused about whether quinoa is whole grain or not? quinoa is an edible seed, it is not a cereal grain like wheat and barley but it is a pseudo-cereal.  now you must be thinking "what is pseudo-cereal". let me explain this, food which is eaten and used as a whole grain, but botanical do not fall in the category of grasses called "pseudo-cereal".  

healthy property of quinoa

1. Quinoa is a good source of protein, especially for vegans.
2. Quinoa is completely gluten-free.
3. It is high in fiber.
4. Loaded with an antioxidant.
5. Good source of vitamin B.
6. It contains iron, magnesium, calcium in good amount.

types of quinoa

Well, there are approximately 120 plus types of quinoa but red, white and black seeds are commonly harvested for consumption. The white one is the most common kind of quinoa available in supermarkets and stores. These are a little bit different in taste, texture, and flavor. The white one is very common and it is similarly cooked and used like rice, the red one is usually used as salad cause it to does not lose its shape after cooking in the comparison of white quinoa. black quinoa is most flavourful and crunchiest and it requires a bit longer time to cook.

Why quinoa is getting worldwide popular?

Now these days people are getting conscious about fitness, and quinoa is one of the best healthy food. In the last few decades, lots of Asian countries have shown interest in quinoa. One of the main reasons behind it may be that it is a good source of protein for vegetarians and the second one is it is completely gluten-free. Folks who are "gluten sensitive" can also enjoy quinoa.

Now quinoa is also grown in northern India (near the Himalayas region), it is also getting popular in other regions of South Asia. You would be surprised to know that the World health organization declared 2013 as the year of quinoa.

Should we need to include it in our diet?

Well, I am not going to tell whether should you include quinoa in your diet or not. Let's have a look at its plus points and then decide by yourself whether you want to see this superfood on your plate or not.

• It is a good source of protein for vegetarians.
• Quinoa is completely gluten-free. folk who are "gluten sensitive" can also enjoy quinoa.
• It is easy to cook does not take much time to cook.
• The best choice for a fitness freak.
• Quinoa replaces rice in a better and healthy way.

So what you have decided guys? are you going to include this superfood on your plate? let's us know in the comment box. Please do not forget to share this post because sharing is caring.