Creamy Coconut Quinoa with Mixed Vegetables

Best For Lunch

Technically, quinoa is a seed, but we classify it under the umbrella of ‘grains’ because it has the same digestibility level as grains. This recipe is delicious. All the herbs come together to create an exquisite flavor.

INGREDIENTS

SERVES 2-3

AS MAIN MEAL

• 1 cup quinoa
• 3 ½ cups water
• 1 cup green peas
• 3 cups chopped cauliflower
• 2 small potatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, grated
• 1 teaspoon green chili, crushed
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 cups coconut milk
• 2 ½ teaspoons rock salt
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ cup chopped coriander

PRE-PREPARATION

Prepare coconut milk

Method

1. Wash the quinoa. Place it in a saucepan along with 2½ cups of water and let it cook on low flame till the quinoa absorbs the water. Add more water if necessary.
2. In another saucepan, add 1 cup of water along with the peas, cauliflower and potatoes and cook till soft to bite. Then, take out all the vegetables from the pan and store the broth aside.
3. Add the vegetables to the quinoa. Stir well.
4. Add ginger, chili and thyme and stir for ½ a minute.
5. Switch off the stove and immediately add coconut milk, salt & lemon. Keep the pan covered for 5 minutes so the ingredients can cook using the steam inside, not directly on the flame.
6. Top with coriander, stir well and serve immediately.

Nutritional Value:

  • Quinoa: A complete protein source, quinoa provides all nine essential amino acids, making it an excellent plant-based protein option. It’s also rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals like magnesium and iron.
  • Mixed Vegetables: Cauliflower, green peas, and potatoes add fiber, vitamins, and minerals to the dish, promoting digestive health, immune function, and overall well-being.
  • Coconut Milk: Rich and creamy coconut milk adds a luxurious texture to the dish while providing healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals like potassium and manganese.
  • Ginger and Chili: Both ginger and chili offer anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits, as well as adding a flavorful kick to the dish.
  • Thyme: Thyme not only enhances the aroma and flavor of the dish but also contains antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties.
  • Rock Salt: A natural source of minerals, rock salt adds flavor to the dish without the harshness of processed table salt.
  • Lemon Juice: Lemon juice adds a refreshing acidity to balance the richness of the coconut milk and enhance the overall flavor profile.
  • Coriander: Fresh coriander adds a burst of freshness and vibrant color to the dish, while also providing additional vitamins and antioxidants.

Benefits:

  1. High in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients from quinoa and mixed vegetables.
  2. Supports muscle repair and growth with complete plant-based protein from quinoa.
  3. Promotes digestive health and regularity with fiber-rich ingredients.
  4. Provides a creamy and satisfying texture with coconut milk, suitable for a vegan diet.
  5. Offers anti-inflammatory and digestive benefits from ginger and chili.
  6. Enhances flavor and aroma with fragrant thyme and fresh coriander.
  7. Helps maintain electrolyte balance with natural rock salt.
  8. Quick and easy to prepare for a wholesome main meal.
  9. Suitable for gluten-free and dairy-free diets.
  10. Offers a comforting and nourishing dining experience.

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