Chenopodium quinoa

Chenopodium quinoa (commonly known as quinoa) is a flowering plant in the amaranth family. It is a grain crop grown primarily for its edible seeds. Quinoa is not a grass, but rather a pseudocereal, similar to amaranth and buckwheat.

History

Quinoa was first domesticated by the Andean people around 3,000 to 4,000 years ago. It has been an important staple in the Andean cultures where the plant is indigenous but has become increasingly popular in the rest of the world.

Cultivation

Quinoa plants thrive in a variety of conditions, but prefer well-drained soil and a relatively cool climate. The plants are typically sown in rows, and are self-fertile. The seeds are harvested once they have turned from green to a golden brown.

Nutritional Value

Quinoa seeds are rich in protein, dietary fiber, B vitamins, and dietary minerals in amounts greater than in many grains. It is gluten-free and considered easy to digest. Because of these characteristics, quinoa is being considered a possible crop in NASA's Controlled Ecological Life Support System for long-duration human occupied spaceflights.

Culinary Use

Quinoa seeds are used in a variety of dishes, such as breakfast cereals, soups, salads, and desserts. They can be cooked in a similar manner to rice, and can also be used as a flour in baking.

See Also

• Amaranthus
• Pseudocereal
• Andean civilizations