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Why Make This Recipe

Curried quinoa is not just a meal; it’s a delight for the senses. This recipe brings together the nutritious goodness of quinoa and a burst of flavors from aromatic spices. It’s easy to prepare, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and relaxed weekends. With its vibrant colors and rich taste, this dish will impress anyone at your dining table. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for vegetarians and health-conscious eaters.

How to Make Deliciously Easy Curried Quinoa

Ingredients:

1 cup quinoa, rinsed
1 tablespoon oil (olive or neutral)
1 teaspoon cumin seeds
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon garlic paste (or 4–5 minced cloves)
1 tablespoon ginger paste (or 1 inch fresh ginger)
1 teaspoon curry powder
½ teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon coriander powder
½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
1 medium tomato, diced
1 medium carrot, chopped
½ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
Salt, to taste
2 cups water
Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lemon wedges, optional

Directions:

Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove bitterness.
Heat oil in a saucepan. Add cumin seeds and sauté until they sizzle.
Add the chopped onion and cook until golden and translucent.
Stir in the garlic and ginger paste, sauté until aromatic.
Add the diced tomato and cook until soft and pulpy.
Stir in curry powder, turmeric, coriander, chili flakes, and salt. Toast the spices briefly.
Mix in the chopped carrot and peas, stirring to coat them with spices.
Add the rinsed quinoa and water. Stir well and bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
Let it rest covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, garnish with cilantro, and serve with lemon wedges.

How to Serve Deliciously Easy Curried Quinoa

You can serve this delicious curried quinoa as a main dish or as a side alongside your favorite protein. It pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. For a fresh touch, add a side salad or some yogurt on top. Serve warm and let the vibrant flavors shine through.

How to Store Deliciously Easy Curried Quinoa

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if it seems dry.

Tips to Make Deliciously Easy Curried Quinoa

Make sure to rinse the quinoa well to eliminate its bitter taste.
Adjust the spice levels to suit your preference. If you like it spicier, add more chili flakes.
Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to enhance the dish.
For a nuttier flavor, try toasting the quinoa in the pan before adding water.

Variation

You can customize this recipe by adding different proteins like chickpeas for a vegetarian boost, or chicken for extra heartiness. Changing the veggies based on the season can also keep the recipe exciting!

FAQs

Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?
Yes, using vegetable broth will add extra flavor to the dish.

Is there a way to make this dish faster?
You can use pre-cooked quinoa or a quick-cook option to save time.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheat before serving.