Qunioa has been eaten by the Andean people for more than 3000 years and is indigenous to this region, with the highest production of quinoa coming from Peru. The Inca civilization regarded quinoa as sacred, with the Inca Emperor sowing the first seeds of the season using golden tools.
A pseudo cereal, high in nutritional value, with a high content of proteins, antioxidant phytonutrients and high heart–healthy monounsaturated fats, making quinua the perfect superfood!
BENEFITS FOR THE CONSUMER
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidants benefits.
- Good blood sugar regulation and assist with type 2 diabetes.
- Reduces the risk of cancer.
- Decreased risk of allergies.
ORIGINS
Quinoa is an Andean food which originated in the area surrounding the Lake Titicaca in Peru and Bolivia. Quinoa was cultivated and used by pre-Columbian civilizations and was replaced by cereals when the Spanish conquered South America. Quinoa was referred to as the “Mother Grain “by the indigenous people of Peru. Chenopodium , is the scientific name for Quinoa , which is a pseudo cereal and hence gluten free but has high levels of protein. The quinoa grain has become very popular in the last few years , which lead to the UN naming 2013 International Year of Quinoa.
INGREDIENTS
Quinoa is milled to produce Quinoa flour
CHEMICAL COMPONENTS
Rich in good quality protein. Contains essential minerals and vitamins , including Vitamin B.
High levels of flavonoids found in quinoa which provides the anti oxidant properties
NUTRITIONAL BENEFITS
- Quinoa is one of the most protein rich foods you can eat.
- Quinoa contains almost twice the amount of fiber than most other grains.
- Contains high levels of Iron , Manganese , Magnesium and even Vitamin B2.
- Amino acid Lysine , found in quinoa , is essential for tissue growth and repair.
HOW TO USE QUINOA FLOUR
Substitute 20% to 30% of normal flour with Quinoa flour to add more protein to the item.
Alternatively substitute normal flour with quinoa flour for a gluten free health breads and biscuits and health bars.
Quinoa flour can be used in soups and stews , as a coating chicken or any other foods before grilling or flying.
REFERENCES
1. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quinoa
2. http://www.fao.org/quinoa-2013/what-is-quinoa/origin-and-history/en/
3. http://quinua.pe/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/Abucoch-chapter.pdf
4. http://www.mindbodygreen.com/0-4994/7-Benefits-of-Quinoa-The-Supergrain-of-the-Future.html
