Walnut Rosemary Quinoa

Bec's Note:

Quinoa, pronounced keen-wa, should be thoroughly rinsed prior to preparation to help remove any powdery residue that can remain following the removal of a protective substance called saponin (protects grain from insects and weather). Rinse in a fine strainer until water runs clear. Use two parts liquid to one part quinoa. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until grains are translucent and germ has spiralled out from each grain. All the water should have disappeared.

• Total Time: 50 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 40 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 1/2 cups rinsed quinoa
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 3 cups water
• 1 tablespoon tamari soy sauce or 1 tablespoon regular low sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary or 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen peas, thawed)
• 1/2 cup walnuts, chopped

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. Heat oil in saucepan; add onion and quinoa. Sauté over medium heat, stirring constantly for about 3 minutes.
3. Add pepper and sauté an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add water, soy sauce, rosemary and peas. Bring to a boil and cover; simmer 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
5. Meanwhile, roast walnuts in oven for 3-5 minutes.
6. When quinoa is cooked, turn off heat and mix in walnuts.
7. Let sit an additional 10 minutes and serve.

Reviews

[Alyss05]

I really enjoyed this! I made it with some chicken stock instead of all water and no soy sauce, though I did use seasalt and will use soy sauce next time. I probably used close to a teaspoon of rosemary, ground in a mortar and pestle, but it needed more, more, more! The peas and walnuts are a great addition. Yum!

[Chef #353043]

I modified this one a little. To add more flavor I used chicken stock instead of water. So the veg wouldn't lose there luster I added the peas and pepper at the end. Chicken would also be a nice addition. Great as a side or even a main.