Quinoa Kichuri (Quinoa & Lentils)

I wasn’t really sure which category to put this recipe in since as you may know, Quinoa is high in protein. However, it also contains a relatively high carbohydrate content and should be eaten in moderation. Furthermore, the combination of the Quinoa along with the lentils make this a super protein dish and if vegetables are added, it’s a great dish to eat as is. Since some may choose to eat it as a side dish, I decided to add it to the “Rice & Breads” section.

Ingredients:

2 cups Quinoa

1 cup red lentils

Seasonings: 1 tsp salt (or to taste), ½ tsp turmeric, 1 tsp fresh cumin seeds

1 onion sliced finely

1 tbs oil

2 green chillies, slit in half

How to:

1. Soak the Quinoa and the lentils together in a bowl or pan for at least 15 mins to wash away the bitterness. Wash and drain well.

2. Fry the onions until brown.

3. Fry one tsp of fresh cumin seeds until slightly brown and then add ½ tsp of turmeric and 1 tsp of salt.  Fry for one minute.

4. Add the Quinoa and lentils and fry for 2-3 minutes.

5. Pour into a rice cooker with 2-3 cups of water (just enough to cover the ingredients).

6. Once done, add the slit green chillies and serve hot.

Note:  If you wish to add frozen peas or other veggies such as frozen chopped carrots, or green beans – you can add this to the rice cooker at the same time as the Quinoa and lentils.

Recipe by Saqui S. Huq. Image by Sabina Huq