Special Diets

Quinoa Pilaf

• From: In Great Taste

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 Tbs extra-virgin olive oil

• 1 tsp kosher salt

• 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper

• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric

• 1 tomato, finely chopped

• 1/2 red onion, peeled and finely chopped

• 1/2 cup pitted black olives (optional)

• 1/4 cup dried currants

• 1 tsp grated lemon zest

• fresh mint leaves

Quinoa is a recently rediscovered ancient "grain," native to Central America, where it was once known as the "Gold of the Incas" for its ability to sustain the strength of their warriors. It has a fluffy, creamy, slightly crunchy texture and a nutty flavor when cooked that is a good complement to the flavors in this pilaf.

Directions

• Place the quinoa in a large sieve and rinse with cold water; drain. Transfer to a medium saucepan. Add the broth, bay leaf, oil, salt, pepper, and turmeric. Bring to a boil over medium heat, cover, and simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
• Stir in the tomato, onion, olives (if using), currants, and lemon zest. Transfer to a serving dish and top with the mint.