Quinoa


Also known as: Quinua (Spanish)

Description:
Native to the Andes Mountains in South America, Quinoa is the seed of the leafy plant called Chenopodium quinoa of the Chenopodiaceae (or goosefoot plant family). The grain is related to beetroots, spinach and tumbleweeds. Been around for 5000 years, Quinoa is said to have been the staple diet of the Incas. Similar to millet in appearance, Quinoa is mild in taste and chewy in texture.

Commonly used in:
Salads and side dishes. It can also be used as an alternative to rice.

Health benefit: 
Considered a superfood, Quinoa is a powerhouse of proteins, fats, vitamins, antioxidants, etc. It’s gluten-free, therefore easy to digest and low glycaemic index makes it ideal for diabetics