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ALL YOU WANT TO KNOW ABOUT QUINOA:
ITS ORIGIN
Quinoa, pronounced keen-wah, has a rich and fascinating history that dates back thousands of years.
This ancient grain has its origins in the Andean region of North-Western South America, where it was first
cultivated by the Incas over 5,000 years ago. The Incas considered quinoa to be a sacred crop, and it
played a crucial role in their diet and culture.
HOW IT GAINED POPULARITY
Despite its long history, quinoa’s popularity remained relatively confined to the Andean region for
centuries. Quinoa’s journey to popularity is intertwined with a fascinating discovery by NASA and the
efforts of scientists who recognized its remarkable benefits.
NASA’s Involvement: In the 1980s, NASA played a crucial role in elevating quinoa’s status. The space
agency was in search of a nutritious and easily cultivable food source for astronauts during long-duration
space missions. After extensive research and experimentation, NASA identified quinoa as a potential
candidate due to its exceptional nutritional profile and adaptability.
Scientific Exploration: Scientists around the world started studying quinoa in-depth, uncovering its incredible health benefits. They found that quinoa is a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids necessary for human health. This sets quinoa apart from most other grains and makes it an ideal choice for vegetarians and vegans seeking a high-quality plant-based protein.
Superfood Recognition: As scientists continued to analyze quinoa’s nutrient content, it garnered the title of a “superfood.” The term “superfood” refers to foods rich in essential nutrients, antioxidants, and health-promoting properties. Quinoa’s abundance of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants contributed to its growing reputation as a superfood that supports overall health and well-being.
2013 International Year of Quinoa: In 2013, the United Nations declared it the “International Year of Quinoa” to raise awareness about the grain’s exceptional nutritional benefits, ecological adaptability, and its potential to contribute to food security worldwide. This international recognition further boosted its popularity and led to increased production and consumption on a global scale.
Global Health Trend: As the awareness of healthy eating and sustainable agriculture increased worldwide, quinoa’s popularity skyrocketed. People across the globe embraced quinoa as a nutritious and versatile grain that aligned with their health and environmental goals.
Culinary Versatility: Furthermore, quinoa’s culinary flexibility and ability to adapt to various cuisines made it a favorite among chefs and home cooks alike. It seamlessly integrated into traditional dishes while adding a delightful texture and flavor.
PLANT, SAPONIN, VARIETIES & TASTE
Quinoa is a hardy and resilient plant belonging to the Amaranthaceous family. It thrives in diverse climates and altitudes, ranging from sea level to high mountainous regions. The crop can survive in any temperature ranging from -8 C ̊ to 38 ̊C and humidity ranging from 40% to 80%. Additionally, quinoa is known for its remarkable tolerance to drought and poor soil conditions, making it an environmentally friendly crop.
One essential aspect of quinoa is its saponin content. Saponin is a naturally occurring compound found in the outer coating of quinoa seeds, giving them a bitter taste if not properly removed. At Queens Quinoa it undergoes a thorough cleaning process to eliminate saponin, making it ready for consumption.
Quinoa comes in various varieties, each offering unique colors, tastes, and textures. Common varieties include White, Red, and Black Quinoa. Each type has its own distinct flavor profile, ranging from nutty and earthy to slightly sweet.
