How to Cook Quinoa

Rinse the quinoa: In a fine-meshed strainer, rinse the quinoa under cold water for 30 seconds. Drain well. Sally Vargas Cook the quinoa: In a small saucepan, combine the drained quinoa, 2 cups water, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Lower the heat to maintain a steady, gentle simmer. Simmer, uncovered, for 12 to 16 minutes, or until the germs (tiny spirals) separate and curl around the seeds, and the water is absorbed. With a spoon, dig down to the bottom of the pot and check to see if the water has evaporated. If not, cook for a few more minutes. Sally Vargas Sally Vargas Steam the cooked quinoa: Remove the pan from the heat, cover with a lid, and let steam for 5 minutes. Serve: Remove the lid, fluff the quinoa with a fork and transfer to a serving bowl. Sally Vargas