Quinoa – Grain or Seed
Quinoa, commonly referred to as a grain is actually a seed! It is a very special seed. Quinoa’s nutritive value, particularly its protein value is out of this world. It is considered a complete protein (all of the essential amino acids are represented and in correct proportions) and 1/2 cup will fulfill a child’s daily protein needs.
Feed Quinoa to baby
Recommended to start to feed baby at 8 months old, Quinoa can be a super porridge base and I suggest grinding the quinoa to a powder, just as I suggest preparing super porridge brown rice cereal or super porridge oatmeal. Cook the powder (1 cup ungrounded) in two cups of boiling water, whisking throughout the cooking process to prevent lumps. As always, you may cook the quinoa whole and then blend to desired consistency for your 8 month old. Mixing the quinoa porridge with fruit, try a banana, vegetables, or yogurt is always a good idea.
A Super Baby Food fan, (thanks, Amanda) suggests preparing quinoa by blending cooked quinoa with 1 steamed squash, 1 steamed zucchini, 1 banana and a dash of nutmeg with about 2 oz of formula or breast milk. She swears the the taste and texture is perfect for an 8 month old!
Feed Quinoa to Family
Recipes using quinoa instead of meat for protein needs can be very tasty. Here are a few ideas for quinoa recipes for the family:
Vegan Quinoa Stuffed Peppers by Greatist.com
Zucchini Quinoa Lasagna by VegetarianTimes.com
Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-fry by Skinnyms.com
Please share your family recipes using quinoa. Thanks!