Rinsing removes this gluten-free pseudo-grain’s natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter.

(Quinoa is technically a seed.)

Although most boxed quinoa is prerinsed, it doesn’t hurt to give it an extra rinse at home.

Perfect Quinoa

Photo: Jennifer Causey

Allowing the quinoa to steam helps it absorb any remaining traces of liquid and plump up.

Bring quinoa, 1 3/4 cups water, and salt to a boil in a saucepan over high.

Cover and reduce heat to medium.

Cook until liquid is mostly absorbed, 12 to 15 minutes.

Remove from heat, and let steam, covered, 10 minutes.

Drain any excess cooking liquid.

  • Daily Values (DVs) are the recommended amounts of nutrients to consume each day.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient.