Basic Quinoa with Tofu, originally uploaded by speedvegan.

I love quinoa (pronounced “keen-wah”). It is very rich in protein. Actually, quinoa is considered a complete protein due to the presence of all 8 essential amino acids. Quinoa is also high in calcium and iron and is a good source of vitamin E and several B vitamins. Now, I know what you’re wondering and the answer is yes, it is very tasty ! Here is a basic recipe.

1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
1 green pepper, chopped
1 red pepper, chopped
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp coriander
salt (to taste)
fresh ground pepper (to taste)
8 oz extra firm tofu, drained, pressed and cut into cubes
1/3 cup walnuts, chopped and toasted
1/4 cup dried cranberries

1. Bring water to a boil and add quinoa. Cover and simmer for 8-12 minutes until quinoa has absorbed all the liquid.

2. Remove from heat and allow to cool.

3. In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add peppers and cook for 4 minutes.

4. Add cumin coriander, salt and fresh ground pepper. Stir in tofu and cook for another 4 minutes.

5. Remove from heat and add to quinoa.

6.Aadd walnuts and cranberries. Mix well and serve immediately.

Jose had seconds and ate leftovers for lunch the next day. He even asked me to make this again. Look out for other quinoa recipes in the future !