Popped Quinoa Recipe
A simple and healthy snack recipe for popped quinoa, which is crunchy and aromatic. This quick method uses dry heat to pop quinoa grains, resulting in a light, toasted flavor perfect for topping salads, yogurt, or enjoying on its own.
- Author: reem
- Prep Time: 2 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: About ⅓ cup of popped quinoa 1x
- Category: Snack/Topping
- Method: Dry Heat Popping
- Cuisine: Fusion/Healthy
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup quinoa
- 1 teaspoon canola oil (optional)
- Prep the skillet: Heat a large stainless steel skillet over medium heat until sizzling hot. The pan needs to be fully heated before adding the quinoa to ensure it pops properly.
- Add oil (optional): If using, add 1 teaspoon of canola oil to the hot skillet to help the quinoa cook evenly and prevent sticking.
- Add quinoa: Pour the quinoa into the skillet, spreading it evenly in a single layer. Use a spatula if necessary to separate any clusters.
- Pop the quinoa: The quinoa should start popping immediately. Gently shake the pan every few seconds if no oil was used, or stir gently with a spatula if oil was added, to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
- Cook until done: Continue to shake or stir for about 2-3 minutes, until the quinoa grains are popped, golden brown, and aromatic.
- Cool and serve: Transfer the popped quinoa to a plate or bowl to cool before serving. Enjoy as a crunchy topping or snack.
Notes
- The popcorn-like popping sound indicates the quinoa is cooking correctly.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet for even heat distribution.
- If you skip the oil, shaking the pan is necessary, while oil requires stirring.
- Store cooled popped quinoa in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain crispness.
- Experiment with seasoning by adding salt, spices, or herbs after popping for extra flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: ⅓ cup popped quinoa (approx. 20 grams)
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sugar: 0.2 g
- Sodium: 0 mg
- Fat: 2 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.2 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 2.5 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
Keywords: popped quinoa, quinoa snack, healthy snack, toasted quinoa, gluten free snack, crunchy topping