Veggie Quinoa

I am 95% “Meatasaurus” and 5% “Vegisaurus” which mathematically means I am no part “Vegansaurus”  and that math works for me since I adore my meat. As for dairy, fruit and veggies… I can’t see living without them but I also can’t see having a strict diet of them but to those who can live on a strictly vegetarian diet I doff my hat to you. With that being said I recently found myself contemplating a veggie dinner more out of necessity than any other reason. It was between grocery shopping days and there was no protein (read meat) in the house…… besides I was to lazy to go out and get some so after peering into the pantry for what seemed like an eternity a plan was formed. I would use up the rest of the Quinoa and add other little goodies to it.

Now for those of you who may not be familiar with Quinoa it is simply a grain that is cooked similar to rice and, in my humble opinion, is every bit as good as rice but is oft times overlooked as a substitute for rice or other starches AND Quinoa absorbs whatever flavors are added to it so that makes it very versatile.

Here’s how we do this one.

Shopping List:

• 1 3/4 cups Chicken stock
• 1 cup Quinoa (normal liquid to Quinoa ratio is 2-1)
• Half a medium onion- chopped
• Half a seeded and chopped Jalapeno
• 1 1/2 cups frozen mixed veggies
• Two garlic cloves- diced
• 1 1/2 teaspoons Turmeric
• 1 teaspoon each of Oregano and Thyme
• 2 Tablespoons Canola oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Putting it all together:

• In a medium sized pot combine the Quinoa, chicken stock and Turmeric
• Bring the pot to a boil and reduce heat to a simmer
• Simmer the Quinoa for approx. 20 minutes or until all the liquid has been absorbed
• Meanwhile, in a large sauce pan heat the oil and saute the garlic and onion until the onion is translucent— approx. 3 mins.
• Add the remaining ingredients to the garlic and onion and continue sauteing until the veggies are heated through. If need be add a little water to the veggies.

Once the Quinoa has cooked add it to the veggies and mix well. Spoon into a bowl and enjoy. Also feel free to add whatever protein you like. I would suggest chicken or shrimp.

There you have it, another “simple but tasty recipe for the grilling season and beyond”

Until next time……….

                           Bon Appetite