Questions about Quinoa?

Quinoa is all the rage right now in the health food world, and for good reason!  It is what I like to call a superfood, meaning it's too good for you to not eat it!  Quinoa is actually a seed, however, when cooking it behaves more like a grain such as rice.  Pre-cooked it looks like this... 

After cooking it puffs up much like rice to look something like this...

Why love quinoa?

• It is packed with 9 amino acids which makes it a complete protein!  So it tastes like a grain but without the carbs!  Could it get any better??
• It is rich in fiber with 6 grams per 1/4 cup... that's more than an apple!
• It's packed with vitamins and minerals such as iron, riboflavin, magnesium, and vitamin B2.
• Its wheat and gluten free for those of you with special diet considerations.
• It is very low on the glycemic index meaning your blood sugar doesn't spike, it is digested slowly which will make you feel fuller longer.
• It cooks quicker than rice taking only 10-15 minutes.
• It has a mild nutty flavor that mixes well with many different cuisines similar to rice.

Following is one of my favorite quinoa recipes, it has become a staple in our home, but I use quinoa as a substitute for rice in many other recipes as well.  

Quinoa with Black Beans and Cilantro

1 Tbsp coconut oil   (why coconut oil?)

2 cups chopped onion

1 cup chopped red bell pepper

1 cup quinoa rinsed and drained

2 teaspoons chili powder

1/2 teaspoon ground cumin

1/2 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups water

1 15 oz can black beans

1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Feta cheese to taste

Heat oil in heavy medium skillet over medium-high heat.  Add onions and red pepper and saute until beginning to soften, about 3-5 minutes.  Stir in next 4 ingredients.  Add water; bring to boil.  Cover.  Reduce heat to low and simmer until quinoa is almost tender, about 14 minutes.  Add beans and cilantro, cook uncovered until water is fully absorbed. about 3 minutes.  Stir in Feta cheese if desired and serve.