There are three different varieties of quinoa that vary in flavor, texture and color. The highest quality quinoa is called Altiplano which is the purest strain and is grown in Bolivia and Peru, 12,500 feet above sea level. The result is a sweet, delicate ivory seed that is more expensive but well worth the cost. The second grade is called Valley variety which is also mountain-raised, but at 7,000 to 10,000 feet above sea level. This variety is commonly grown in Peru, Ecuador and Columbia. The quality of Valley variety is not as good as Altiplano because farming methods can often be primitive. The lower altitude results in a more yellow color and is 50 to 60 cents cheaper. The lowest grade quinoa is called Sea Level, describing where it is grown. This results in brownish-colored seeds and tends to be more bitter than mountain-grown quinoa. It may be half the price of high quality quinoa, but the savings are not worth the loss in taste. Always store quinoa in the refrigerator because of its high oil content.

This is a perfect recipe as a first introduction to healthy eating even for the hardcore junk food addict.  It’s simply tastes scrumptious.  Stacy and I enjoy watching suspicion melt into surprise, wow this is really good!  And the Mc-numbed taste buds of kids seem to easily except this savory treat.  Best not to tell them how nutritious Quinoa is until after they have had their first bite.

4 med. yellow onions,chopped
1 large red pepper, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ tsp of sea salt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cups of rinsed Quinoa
4 cups of water
2 vegetarian soup stock cubes

Add finely chopped onions, minced garlic, and salt to olive oil in wok and sauté until onions are slightly brown.  Then add chopped red pepper and continue to sauté until onions are caramelized.   Add water, stock cubes and rinsed quinoa and bring to a simmer.  Stir once after five minutes then simmer for 35 minutes or until water has been cooked in.   

Quinoa Fun Fruit Dessert
Serves 3

1 cup quinoa
4 or 5 chopped dates
2 cups grape juice
1/2 cup of raisins

Cook mixture together. Serve hot or cold. Sliced frozen banana can be added just before serving.