White quinoa
White quinoa is a type of grain that comes from the quinoa plant. It's a small, round seed that is often cooked and consumed like a grain, despite technically being a seed. Quinoa is known for its mild, nutty flavour and fluffy texture, making it a popular choice for a variety of dishes.
To produce white quinoa, the seeds are harvested from the quinoa plant and then processed to remove the outer saponin layer, which can taste bitter. This process involves washing and drying the seeds to create the edible quinoa that we find in stores. Once the outer coating is removed, the quinoa seeds become lighter in colour, resulting in the white quinoa that many people are familiar with.
White quinoa is a versatile ingredient that appears in a wide range of dishes, from salads and soups to main courses and even desserts. It is often used as a nutritious alternative to rice or couscous and is valued for its high protein content and numerous health benefits. You may find white quinoa listed on food labels for products like quinoa salads, granola bars, soups, and even gluten-free baked goods to add texture and a nutritional boost.
