Quinoa (keen-wah) is something that I’ve heard a lot about, but have never tried … despite having some in the pantry for months. It’s an interesting, ancient grain that has a rather unique texture, and it’s really good for you! The texture is kind of crunchy and soft at the same time. At first I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I’m pleasantly surprised. The flavor of quinoa is mild and nutty, which is easily adaptable. This week’s Meatless Monday quinoa pilaf is filling and works well as a main course, but it would also make a wonderful side to a nice roasted chicken.
After researching about quinoa and it’s flavor, I thought that mushrooms would be a nice compliment to it’s flavor. I have to say that after eating this quinoa mushroom pilaf, I’m definitely a big fan of quinoa and can’t wait to try more recipes!
If you’re on the hunt for a dish that is relatively simple to make, and yields scrumptious results then I highly recommend this one!
Quinoa Mushroom Pilaf
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 4 oz white button mushrooms, quartered
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 ¼ cups chicken broth, or vegetable broth
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoon Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a medium pan over medium heat. Add onion and mushrooms and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden and they've released their liquid, about 5-8 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Stir in quinoa and toast, stirring constantly, until lightly golden and fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed, 12-14 minutes.
- Remove from heat, discard the bay leaf, and fluff with a fork. Stir in Parmesan.
Notes
- If you want some spice, you could add chili flakes in with the onion and mushrooms as they are sauteing.
Let me know if you give this quinoa mushroom pilaf a try in the comments below.
Shirley
Another "very tasty sounding" Meatless Monday dish…I have never heard of Quinoa but I shall definitely try it as I love the ingredients that you have put with it…Love the photo, too…