Quinoa "Fried Rice"
Try this Quinoa "Fried Rice" recipe, or contribute your own.
Try this Quinoa "Fried Rice" recipe, or contribute your own.
- 1 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- yield: 4 servings
- 1 cup red quinoa rinsed
- 2 medium zucchini cut with julienne peeler (skin and flesh not the inner seeds)
- 5 medium carrots cut with julienne peeler
- 2 tablespoons reduced sodium tamari (soy sauce)
- 1/4 teaspoon ginger (dried) or about 1 tablespoon grated fresh
- 2 teaspoons chili paste (without onion and garlic i used preston & pierce)
- 4 large eggs whisked
- 1-2 scallion greens thinly sliced
- Carbohydrate 109.072 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 23.8190000273894 g
- Fiber 11.9 g
- Protein 24.004 g
- Saturated Fat 3.11720000388929 g
- Serving Size 1 1 recipe (539g)
- Sodium 22.7200000120209 mg
- Sugar 97.172 g
- Trans Fat 1.37430000120513 g
- Calories 745 calories
Step-by-step
- Cook quinoa per package directions, set aside. Can cook and refrigerate for later use.
- In large skillet, add sesame oil and julienned vegetables over medium high heat, gently stirring to cook, about 1 minute.
- Add cooked quinoa (this should be free of any residual cooking water).
- Add tamari, ginger and chili paste (if using), stirring to blend.
- Make a well in the middle of the dish, add in eggs.
- Using spatula or fork scramble eggs, cooking them, and then fold into mixture.
- Garnish with thinly sliced scallions (green part only), if desired.
My Unexpected Quinoa Fried Rice Adventure: A Busy Mom's Quick and Healthy Meal
As a busy mom of three, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals can feel like navigating a minefield. Between school drop-offs, work deadlines, and after-school activities, a quick, nutritious dinner is my holy grail. That's why I've become a huge fan of quick recipes that don't compromise on flavor or health. Recently, I stumbled upon a quinoa "fried rice" recipe, and it's become a weeknight staple. I never considered quinoa as a base for fried rice before, but the results were surprisingly amazing!
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize it based on what's in your fridge. I typically use zucchini and carrots, but feel free to experiment with other vegetables like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas. The key is to julienne the vegetables for that authentic fried rice texture. I found that using a julienne peeler is a game changer – it makes the prep work so much faster! The recipe also calls for tamari, which gives it a lovely salty, savory flavor. If you prefer a less salty dish, you can adjust the amount accordingly. The addition of ginger and chili paste adds a delicious depth of flavor, but these are totally optional, depending on your spice preference.
The Cooking Process: A Breeze!
The instructions are straightforward and easy to follow, even on a hectic weeknight. I usually cook the quinoa ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator, making weeknight dinners even faster. This is a major time-saver, especially when you're juggling multiple responsibilities. Once you've got your quinoa ready, the rest of the process is a quick sauté. The vegetables cook quickly, and the eggs are scrambled right in the pan, creating a perfectly cohesive dish. The entire process takes less than 20 minutes – a welcome relief for a busy weeknight meal!
Beyond the Recipe: A Culinary Journey
This quinoa "fried rice" is more than just a quick meal; it's a gateway to experimenting with healthy and delicious food. It’s sparked a new appreciation for quinoa in my kitchen. I've discovered that it's a fantastic base for countless dishes, and I'm already brainstorming new ways to incorporate it into my regular meal rotation. From salads to bowls, the possibilities are endless!
I love how this recipe is adaptable to different dietary needs. It's naturally gluten-free and can easily be made vegan by omitting the eggs. For those watching their sodium intake, using reduced-sodium tamari is a smart choice. The best part is, the whole family loves it. Even my picky eaters clean their plates every time. This recipe has become a cherished part of our family's meal routine, a testament to its simplicity, flavor, and versatility.
Final Thoughts: A Recipe for Success
This quinoa fried rice recipe isn't just about the food; it's about the time saved, the healthy ingredients, and the joy of creating a delicious meal for my family without spending hours in the kitchen. It's a testament to the fact that healthy eating and busy lives aren't mutually exclusive. With a little planning and a recipe like this, you can enjoy flavorful and nutritious food even amidst the whirlwind of a busy schedule. So, give it a try and experience the delicious simplicity for yourself! You won't be disappointed.
