How to Cook Quinoa (3 Ways)

Learn how to cook quinoa so it’s light and fluffy every time. Store it in the fridge to use in salads, grain bowls, wraps, and more throughout the week! 

What Is Quinoa, Anyway? 

Quinoa, pronounced “keen-wah”, is a nutritious grain-like seed that is native to the Andean region of South America. Cultivated and consumed for thousands of years, it comes from the Amaranthaceae family and is classified as a pseudocereal. This means it’s not a true grain but is prepared and consumed similarly to other grains like rice and oats.  

Types of Quinoa 

There are many different varieties of quinoa. However, we’re only covering the three most common types you’ll find in your local grocery today. 

• White Quinoa – Arguably the most common, white quinoa has the mildest flavor and an extra light and fluffy texture. 
• Red Quinoa – This is similar in texture to white quinoa but has a much nuttier, earthy taste. As a result, it works well in savory recipes but isn’t great for sweets. 
• Black Quinoa – The rarest of the three, black quinoa is nearly identical to red quinoa in flavor and has a bold nutty, earthy taste. 
• Bonus: Tri-Color Quinoa – Not technically its own variety of quinoa, most stores sell packages of tri-color quinoa which is just a mixture of white, red, and black quinoa. 

Is It Good for You? 

Yes, quinoa is widely recognized as being an extremely nutritious ingredient. 

For starters, it’s a complete source of protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that our bodies can’t produce on our own. This makes it a great option for vegans and vegetarians. 

In addition, it’s a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as folate, vitamin B6, copper, zinc, manganese, magnesium, and phosphorus. 

What’s the Water Ratio Needed to Cook Quinoa? 

The ratio of water to quinoa varies from person to person and brand to brand depending on the type of quinoa, the cooking method, and the desired consistency. 

Some recipes call for a ratio as high as two cups of water for every one cup of quinoa. Meanwhile, others go as low as using one and a half cups of water for every one cup of quinoa.

In general, it is recommended to use double the amount of water as quinoa. Be sure to read the package instructions, and adjust the ratios as needed to achieve your desired consistency.   

How Long Does It Take To Cook Fluffy Quinoa? 

Of course, the time needed to cook quinoa varies. However, on average, you can count on it taking between 15 and 20 minutes to cook completely. Again, check your package instructions, and adjust the cooking time as needed. 

How to Cook Quinoa (3 Ways) 

Due to the fact that it’s a seed and not actually a grain, quinoa cooks a little differently than other carbs you might be used to. This is because it absorbs water differently. 

However, once you’ve got the hang of how to cook quinoa, it’s super easy to do! 

No matter which method you choose, you’ll want to rinse and drain your quinoa in a mesh sieve before you begin. 

Rice Cooker

*Water Ratio: Use two cups of water for every one cup of quinoa. 

1. Combine. Add the quinoa and water to the rice cooker pot. 
2. Cook. Turn on the rice cooker, and let it cook until the water is absorbed. 
3. Serve. Fluff the quinoa with a fork, and enjoy. 

Stovetop 

*Water Ratio: Use two cups of water for every one cup of quinoa. 

1. Boil. Combine the quinoa and water in a medium saucepan. Bring the liquid to a boil on the stove. 
2. Cook. Allow the mixture to simmer until the water is absorbed. 
3. Rest and Fluff. Set the pan aside. Then, fluff the quinoa with a fork, and add it to all your favorite recipes. 

Instant Pot 

*Water Ratio: Use one and a half cups of water for every one cup of quinoa. 

1. Combine. Add the quinoa and water to the Instant Pot. 
2. Cook. Cover, and pressure cook. Then, slow release. 
3. Seve. Fluff the quinoa with a fork before using it. 

How to Store

Once cooked and fully cooled, leftover quinoa can be transferred to an airtight container and stored in the fridge for up to five days or in the freezer for up to two months. 

Ways to Use Cooked Quinoa 

There are endless ways to use quinoa! For instance, it’s a great addition to soups, stews, and salads. However, it can also be used to make vegetarian burgers, added to quesadillas, used in grain bowls, and can even be included in dessert recipes. 

To get you started, some of our favorite ways to use cooked quinoa include: 

• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad
• Mediterranean Quinoa Salad Jar 
• One Pot Mexican Quinoa 
• Vegan Roasted Eggplant Salad
• Southwest Salad with Creamy Chipotle Dressing

Common Questions About How to Cook Quinoa

More Cooking Guides

If you enjoy this article, take a look at more of our guides below. 

• How to Store Parsley 
• How to Make a Butter Board
• How to Cook a Whole Chicken 
• How to Make Taco Seasoning