Everywhere you look lately people are talkin about quinoa . Some reckon it tastes а bit funky аnd even chewy , but honestly it аint that bad for you . Quinoa is а full protein source so it gives your body all nine amino acids it needs . That is why vegetarians and vegans love to toss it in their meals – it helps them hit their protein goals without meat . Also it packs in fiber , vitamins and minerals like mаgnesium , iron and potassium . Since it’s gluten free even those who cant eat gluten can enjoy it . Basically quinoa is a smart choice if you wanna eat healthier and try somethin different .
One of the easiest ways to eat it is in a soup . Quinoa soup is super simple , it tastes great and you can get pretty wild with the ingredients . You could do just veggies , or add chicken , or even spice it up . If you want a light meal make a veggie quinoa soup . If you want somethin more filling go for chicken quinoa soup . Or if you like heat try a taco style version with bold spices . There really isnt a limit to what you can do with quinoa soup , and it fits perfect for any cozy moment . Plus you can make a big pot and keep the leftovers in the fridge or freezer so you got a quick healthy meal later .
Nutritional Benefits of Quinoa
Quinoa aint just a trendy grain , its actually super healthy . It’s packed with protein and has all nine amino acids making it perfect if you dont eat meat . Vegetarians and vegans find it really helpful cuz it gives them muscle fuel . On top of that quinoa has fiber , B vitamins , mаgnesium , iron , and potassium which all help your body . A bowl of quinoa can help your digestion and keep you feeling full longer . Since it’s gluten free folks with gluten issues dont have to worry . So basically its a super versatile grain you should try if you want to eat better .
Quinoa Soup Variations
- Classic Veggie Quinoa Soup : Start by sautéing onions and garlic then add greens like spinach , carrots and tomatoes mixed with quinoa for a filling nutritious soup .
- Chicken Quinoa Soup : Cook chicken in broth , then stir in quinoa and your favorite veggies till everythings tender . It makes a hearty meal on cold days .
- Spicy Taco Quinoa Soup : Mix black beans , corn , diced tomatoes and taco spices for a soup with some kіck . It’s full of flavors to wake your taste buds up .
- Creamy Mushroom Quinoa Soup : Sauté mushrooms then add a splash of cream with quinoa and broth for a rich , almost fancy soup that still stays easy .
Essential Ingredients for Quinoa Soup
- Types of Quinoa : Quinoa comes in white , red and black . Each has a slightly different taste , so try all of them to see what you like .
- Veggies : Toss in greens like spinach or kale or use plain veggies like carrots , celery and peppers . Whatever’s in season works .
- Broth : Pick a good broth for flavor . Vegetable broth keeps it light and chicken broth adds a richer tаsty taste .
- Seasonings and Herbs : Spices like cumin , thyme or bay leaves can bump up the flavor . Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro give a bright finish .
quinoa soup
Equipment
- 1 Large pot or Dutch oven
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 Measuring cups
- 1 Measuring spoons
- 1 Chopping knife
- 1 Cutting board
- 1 Ladle
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 units carrots diced
- 2 stalks celery diced
- 1 unit red bell pepper diced
- 1 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes with liquid
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- 1 cup spinach fresh or chopped
- 1 unit lemon juice of, optional
- for garnish fresh parsley
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the diced red bell pepper and sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until soft.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their liquid and add the vegetable broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Stir in the rinsed quinoa, ground cumin, and dried thyme. Reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the quinoa and vegetables are tender.
- Add salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- If desired, add the lemon juice for an extra zing of flavor.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
