• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Skip to footer

Green Healthy Cooking logo

  • Recipes
    • All Recipes
    • By Category
      • Breakfast
      • Main Dish
        • Fish and Seafood
        • Meat and Chicken
      • Soups
      • Salads
      • Sides & Sauces
      • Desserts
      • Drinks
      • Snack
    • By Diet
      • Vegan
      • Vegetarian
      • Keto
  • Instant Pot
  • Meal Plans
  • Meal Prep
  • About
    • About Lorena
    • Philosophy
    • Shop
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • YouTube
menu icon
go to homepage
search icon
Homepage link
  • Recipes
  • Instant Pot
  • Meal Prep
  • Meal Plans
  • About
×

Home » Basics

How To Cook Quinoa the Fail-Proof Way

March 4, 2021 By Lorena Grater

Pin Recipe Jump to Recipe
how to cook quinoa recipe White quinoa, red quinoa, and black quinoa in jars with title How To Cook Quinoa

Are you looking for a go-to guide on how to cook quinoa perfectly every time? You’ve found it! Learn how to cook fluffy quinoa through my two fail-proof methods. Plus, learn about the differences between white, red, and black quinoa; plus 6 healthy quinoa recipes!
This is a how-to post for your Cooking Basics collection.

how to cook quinoa recipe White quinoa, red quinoa, and black quinoa in jars with title How To Cook Quinoa

What Is Quinoa?

Let’s start with the basics. What is this food, exactly? Is quinoa a grain?

While it’s often called an “ancient grain,” quinoa is actually an edible seed originating in the Peruvian and Bolivian Andes that’s rich in protein and fiber. There is white quinoa (which is the most popular), red, and black (typically the most expensive). Once cooked, it has a nutty taste with the darker quinoa seeds also having an earthy taste to them and a soft rice-like texture.

Is It Gluten-Free?

Since it isn’t a grain but a seed, it is naturally gluten-free. However, it is considered a high-risk food for people with celiac disease. So, while it’s technically gluten-free, quinoa could cause inflammation for people with gluten sensitivities.

Is Quinoa Healthy?

The simple answer is … yes! Quinoa is a nutrition powerhouse. One cup of cooked quinoa has more than 8 grams of protein and is packed with minerals like calcium, iron, and potassium. I believe that quinoa, as well as brown rice and wild rice, are one of the best carbohydrates to add to your diet.

The best part about it is that it cooks very fast and holds well in the fridge and freezer, making it perfect for meal-prepping!

What Is the Correct Quinoa To Water Ratio?

The quinoa to water ratio is the No. 1 question people ask when they learn how to cook quinoa. And the answer is that … it depends. It’s quite silly that many packages suggest a specific seed-to-water ratio without taking into consideration what tools are used to cook it in.

The smaller the circumference of the pot and the tighter the lid sits on the pot, the less water is needed. Large pots with lids that have a hole in them, for example, might need as much as double the amount of water.

In an environment in which no water evaporates, like a pressure cooker (aka Instant Pot), a 1:1 quinoa to water ratio is perfect. The same ratio is needed with my stove-top cooking method, and I’ve found through much trial and error that this way yields the best results.

White quinoa, red quinoa, and black quinoa in bowls.

The Best Way to Cook It

I’ve found that there are two cooking methods that result in perfectly fluffy, tender quinoa every time.

How To Cook Quinoa in the Instant Pot

The absolute fail-proof method of cooking quinoa is in the Instant Pot. It’s perfect every time because it’s a controlled environment.

  • Add a 1:1 quinoa to water ratio, a little sea salt if desired, put on the lid, and seal it. White quinoa only has to cook for only 1 minute on high pressure. Red quinoa has to cook for 2 minutes on high pressure. And black quinoa has to cook 3 minutes on high pressure. (Regardless, you’re cooking a full batch in 3 minutes or less! It doesn’t get any simpler than that.)
  • After the high-pressure cooking time, allow for natural pressure release. This means, do NOT touch the sealing valve at all. Let the pot depressurize all on its own. This can take anywhere from 10-20 minutes depending on the volume inside. This step is crucial for ensuring the quinoa is fully cooked and has the texture we’re looking for.
  • When the safety pin drops, it’s safe to open the pot, fluff it with a fork, and serve!

How To Cook Quinoa on the Stove Top

To get the same results as with the Instant Pot, make sure to use a pot with a small circumference (8 inches in diameter or less) that has a tight-fitting lid without a hole in it. You want as little water as possible to evaporate during the cooking process so you can still use the 1:1 quinoa to water ratio that yields the best results.

  • Bring water, quinoa, and a little sea salt to a boil over high heat. Do NOT walk away from the stove and closely watch the water. As soon as the very first bubbles burst in the water it’s time to immediately put on the lid and reduce the heat to low.
  • The quinoa has to simmer on the lowest heat for 15-20 minutes (15 for white quinoa, 20 for red and black). Once the time is up, do NOT lift the lid. Leave the lid on and just remove the quinoa from the stove-top and set aside for an extra 10 minutes so it can continue steaming.
  • Fluff with a fork, serve, and enjoy!

PRO TIP: Toast your quinoa in a little bit of oil before adding the water and seasonings to bring out its naturally nutty flavor!

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I Rinse Quinoa?

Most packaging suggests you rinse quinoa before cooking to remove impurities and saponins, which “can” make the quinoa taste bitter and soapy. However, that being said, I don’t do this most of the time. I do not find quinoa to taste bitter at all, regardless of if I rinse it or not. Absolutely nothing happens if you don’t rinse your quinoa, it just changes the taste ever so slightly.

How Do I Store Quinoa?

Store leftover quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator or in an airtight freezer bag in the freezer.

How Long Does Quinoa Last in the Refrigerator?

Properly sealed quinoa lasts 3-5 days in the fridge.

Can I Freeze Quinoa?

Absolutely! In a small over-the-fridge freezer, it keeps well for 1-3 months. And it will keep in a deep-chest freezer for 8-12 months.

How Do I Reheat Quinoa?

You can reheat leftover thawed quinoa in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, fluffing with a fork halfway through. You can also warm it in a pot on the stove for 10 minutes or so over medium-low heat.

Can I Blend Different Types of Quinoa?

While I wouldn’t recommend blending raw varieties of quinoa yourself (as they’ll require a calculated cooking time to take the different types into account), you can buy a medley or blend from the grocery store. Some even are combined withe brown or wild rice. They also typically cook quickly, so this is a great option for busy weeknights or meal-prepping!

The 6 Best Quinoa Recipes

There’s really no wrong way to eat or serve quinoa. It’s a great addition to salads, soups, and most entrees as a side dish. Here are my top 5 favorite ways to eat quinoa!

Quinoa Salad

The most popular way to eat quinoa in North America is in the form of a Quinoa Salad.

Quinoa Bowl

Many restaurants offer at least one colorful Quinoa Bowl, too.

Quinoa Breakfast Bowl

You can even have a Quinoa Breakfast of champions if you with.

Close up of a slice of gluten free quinoa pizza crust recipe.

Or more creative ways, such as in a Quinoa Crust.

Black Quinoa Risotto with Haddock

My personal all-time favorite is as Black Quinoa Risotto, a.k.a Quinotto.

It’s the most amazing carb for meal prep, like in this quinoa fried “rice”.

how to cook quinoa recipe White quinoa, red quinoa, and black quinoa in jars with title How To Cook Quinoa

How To Cook Quinoa

Prep Time: 1 minute
Cook Time: 1 minute
natural pressure release: 15 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Learn how to cook fluffy quinoa through my two fail-proof methods. Plus, learn about the differences between white quinoa, red quinoa, and black quinoa; plus 6 healthy quinoa recipes! #instantpot #quinoa #quinoarecipes
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 cup quinoa - white, red, or black
  • 1-2 cups water or broth
  • sea salt
Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

  • Add quinoa to a sieve and rinse under running water until the water runs clear.
  • Instant Pot Quinoa: Add 1:1 ratio of quinoa and liquid to Instant Pot plus sea salt. Put on the lid and set to high pressure (HP) for x minutes + full natural pressure release (NPR).
    White Quinoa: 1 minute HP + NPR
    Red Quinoa: 2 minutes HP + NPR
    Black Quinoa: 3 minutes HP + NPR
    Stovetop Quinoa: Add 1:1 or 1:1.5 ratio of quinoa and liquid plus sea salt to your pot. The amount of liquid will depend on the circumference of the pot and how tight the lid sits on the pot. For a 7-inch or smaller pot with a super tight-fitting lid 1:1 works great. For a 10-inch pot with a tight-fitting lid 1:1.5 works great. For a pot that has a not so tight-fitting lid or even a lid with a hole in it, 1:2 is often necessary to account for all the evaporation.
    Bring to the boil uncovered over high heat while closely watching and as soon as the first bubbles burst IMMEDIATELY put on the lid and reduce the heat to low. Set a timer for 15 minutes (white quinoa) or 20 minutes (red and black quinoa) and let simmer. Once the timer goes off, remove the pot from heat (do NOT peek, leave the lid on), and set the timer for another 10 minutes. Then it's time to lift the lid.
  • Use a fork to fluff up the quinoa and serve.

Notes

Don’t forget to check out my top 5 quinoa recipes above this recipe card!

Nutrition

Calories: 156kcal | Carbohydrates: 27g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 3g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 5mg | Potassium: 239mg | Fiber: 3g | Calcium: 20mg | Iron: 2mg
Course Side Dish
Cuisine International, Peruvian
Keyword Black Quinoa, How To Cook Quinoa, Quinoa, Red Quinoa, White Quinoa
What’s your clean eating vibe?Take this fun QUIZZ and find out in 10 seconds!
  • Facebook

Filed Under: Basics, Sides & Sauces, Vegan, Vegetarian

« Red Lentil Sweet Potato Soup
Instant Pot Lentils »

You may also like:

  • Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce in a jar with a spoon, a fresh tomato, garlic cloves, and fresh basil leaves.Roasted Garlic Tomato Sauce
  • Top view of Strawberry Bacon Spring Salad and a jar of Maple Mustard Balsamic Dressing.Strawberry Bacon Spring Salad
  • Baked Potatoes topped with sour cream and chopped parsley.Instant Pot Baked Potatoes

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. BJ says

    December 29, 2021 at 2:50 am

    Can I cook quinoa in my mini rice cooker using your method? Thank you!!😊

    Reply
    • Lorena Grater says

      December 31, 2021 at 10:15 am

      I’m sorry, I don’t know. I’ve never owned a rice cooker but if I assume correctly, there is no evaporation in a rice cooker, correct? Then you could cook it with a 1:1 ratio.

      Reply
  2. Chere Petty says

    April 29, 2021 at 6:47 pm

    Nope black quinoa still hard and uncooked.
    Cooked over 30 minutes and grain still hard as can be. Freshly bought grain.
    Think you all not cooking quinoa or maybe you are cooking something that is processed.

    Reply
    • Lorena Grater says

      April 30, 2021 at 1:42 pm

      30 minutes and it’s not cooked? I’ve never had black quinoa take that long. I’m not sure what texture you are expecting. Black quinoa does not swell and becomes mushy like white quinoa.

      Reply
  3. Dominic Costello says

    April 13, 2020 at 12:38 am

    5 stars
    Hi,
    I an old man that hasn’t been too good to myself for the past few years but with stuff going on these days I have been trying to eat better. Recently purchased an IP and rice and quinoa before the shortage. Now I have your fool prove method of delicious rice and quinoa. Thank You and stay healthy.
    Dom
    After I retired some 20 years ago I created a website for my best friend whom I worked with for many years at NAU. It needs some updates but tells who he is, and me a little. You might get a kick out of it.

    Reply
    • Lorena Grater says

      April 15, 2020 at 3:00 pm

      I’m so happy to read you could score an Instant Pot, rice, and quinoa just in time :) Enjoy!

      Reply
  4. Sarah says

    January 8, 2020 at 9:18 pm

    I use ur method for rice all the time, it comes out perfect every time! 😄 How long do you recommend for a tricoloured quinoa? My pack has all 3 types.

    Reply
    • Kaye M. says

      September 3, 2020 at 7:24 pm

      Same quandary here. I have a 17,64oz bag of mix of all three kinds of quinoa. What would be te cook time? Thank you.

      Reply
      • Lorena Grater says

        September 4, 2020 at 12:23 pm

        Whenever you have a “mixed grain” bag of any type of grain, you have to cook the mix for as long as the grain that takes the longest to cook requires.

        Reply
  5. Jane Boice says

    October 8, 2019 at 1:14 pm

    I want to pin this recipe but there is no pin option 😩

    Reply
    • Lorena says

      October 8, 2019 at 6:26 pm

      Oh gosh, something must be broken. Thank you so much for pointing it out!!

      Reply
  6. Candace Carl says

    October 7, 2019 at 4:17 pm

    5 stars
    I do the same thing, cook the quinoa in my instant pot. Works perfectly every time.

    Reply
    • Lorena says

      October 8, 2019 at 9:44 am

      Right? I love my instant pot so so much!

      Reply

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Recipe Rating




Primary Sidebar

Hi! I’m Lorena Grater
and I’m passionate about healthy recipes made with clean ingredients! 
Find out more about me!

FIND OUT ABOUT MY PROVEN METHOD FOR EATING BETTER >>

6-WEEK CLEAN EATING PROGRAM

Ipad with 6-Week Clean Eating Program Thumbnail showing on the screen.

AMAZON DISCLOSURE:

Green Healthy Cooking is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

Footer

FIND OUT ABOUT MY PROVEN METHOD FOR EATING BETTER >>

  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • YouTube

MORE INFORMATION

  • About Lorena

Copyright © 2022 Green Healthy Cooking on the Seasoned Pro Theme