How to Make Quinoa Pilaf

quinoa

🥗Healthier: millet

💰Cheaper: rice

Millet is a nutritious grain that can be used similarly to quinoa, while rice is more affordable.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: water

💰Cheaper: water

Using water instead of broth reduces sodium and cost.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Canola oil is more budget-friendly while still providing a neutral flavor.

fresh cilantro

🥗Healthier: parsley

💰Cheaper: dried herbs

Parsley offers a similar flavor profile and is often less expensive.

Finely dice half of a red onion.

Heat olive oil in a pot and add the diced onions.

Sauté the onions until they are translucent and have picked up some color.

Add 1 cup of quinoa to the pot and stir to coat it in the oil.

Toast the quinoa in the pot for a bit to add depth of flavor.

Add 2 cups of chicken stock to the pot and stir.

Bring the mixture to a boil.

Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low.

Let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed (may take up to 20 minutes).

After cooking, turn off the heat and let the quinoa sit off the heat to soak up any remaining liquid.

While the quinoa is cooking, brown and toast some almonds.

Add the toasted almonds to the cooked quinoa.

Add dried cranberries to the quinoa for sweetness.

Mince fresh flat leaf parsley and add it to the quinoa.

Toss everything together to combine.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary