Pudina Quinoa Recipe – A Refreshing and Nutritious Mint-Infused Quinoa
Experience the delight of a refreshing Indian quinoa recipe infused with the cool, aromatic flavor of mint. This Pudina Quinoa is light, healthy, and pairs wonderfully with a range of sides, making it perfect for lunch or dinner. Serve it alongside Dhingri Peas (Mushroom Peas Curry) and a fresh Tomato Cucumber Onion Raita to complete the meal.
Ingredients & Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Value (approx. per serving) |
|---|---|---|
| Quinoa | 1 cup | High in protein and fiber |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 | Low in calories, high in vitamins |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 6 cloves | Rich in antioxidants |
| Cinnamon | 1 inch piece | Helps regulate blood sugar |
| Cloves | 2 | Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory |
| Cardamom | 2 pods | Supports digestive health |
| Fresh Mint Leaves (chopped) | 1/4 cup | Aids in digestion, provides freshness |
| Green Chili (chopped) | 1 | Boosts metabolism |
| Ghee | 1 tsp | Provides healthy fats |
| Salt | To taste | – |
| Water | 2 cups | – |
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Indian
Course: Lunch, Dinner
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1. | Prepare Quinoa: Begin by rinsing the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove any natural bitterness from its coating. Once rinsed, soak the quinoa in water for approximately 2 hours to allow for softer and more flavorful grains. |
| 2. | Sauté Aromatics: Place a pressure cooker on medium heat and add ghee. Once the ghee is hot, add the chopped garlic and onion, stirring and cooking until the onion turns translucent and soft, releasing a delightful aroma. |
| 3. | Infuse Spices: To the softened onions, add the green chili, cinnamon, cloves, and cardamom. Sauté these spices briefly on high heat for about 2 minutes. This step will enhance the flavor of the dish, creating a fragrant base. |
| 4. | Add Quinoa and Mint: Add the soaked and drained quinoa to the cooker along with the chopped mint leaves. Stir everything together, allowing the flavors to blend for another 1–2 minutes. |
| 5. | Season and Add Water: Sprinkle in salt to taste, then pour in 2 cups of water. Close the pressure cooker lid securely. Cook on high heat until you hear two whistles, then reduce the heat to low. |
| 6. | Simmer and Release Pressure: Allow the quinoa to cook on low heat for an additional 15 minutes to ensure it’s fluffy and fully cooked. Turn off the heat and let the pressure release naturally. |
| 7. | Fluff and Serve: Once the pressure has fully released, open the cooker and gently fluff the quinoa with a fork. Transfer to a serving dish. |
| 8. | Garnish and Enjoy: Serve the Pudina Quinoa with a side of Dhingri Peas and a cool, tangy Tomato Cucumber Onion Raita for a refreshing and satisfying meal. |
Enjoy the deliciously light and fragrant Pudina Quinoa – a perfect addition to your wholesome Indian meal spread!
