Simple Steps to Cook Quinoa in a Rice Cooker (Fast and Easy)

Quinoa is rising in popularity due to its stellar nutritional profile and versatility. Traditionally, quinoa is cooked on the stovetop but using a rice cooker offers convenience and consistency. The rice cooker’s precise temperature control and steaming environment produces light, fluffy quinoa every time. This article covers simple steps to cook quinoa in a rice cooker, essential equipment, foolproof rice cooker instructions, and creative ways to enjoy quinoa. With the tips provided, you’ll be able to unlock the full potential of this superfood grain using your trusty rice cooker.

Ingredients and Equipment

Cooking delicious quinoa requires just a few key ingredients and tools:

Choosing Quinoa

Look for dry quinoa with a vibrant color and evenly sized grains. Rinse well to remove any residual bitter coating called saponin. White, red, black and tri-color quinoa varieties work equally well.

Essential Equipment

• Rice cooker with white rice and brown rice settings
• Nonstick pot and steaming tray
• Fine mesh strainer or sieve
• Liquid and dry measuring cups

Helpful Rice Cooker Features

• Delay timer for perfectly timed meals
• Keep warm function to hold quinoa at safe temperatures
• Removable cooking pot for easy transfer and cleaning

Simple Steps to Cook Quinoa in a Rice Cooker

Follow these simple steps for foolproof quinoa:

Rinse the Quinoa

Place quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under running water for 30 seconds, stirring occasionally. Drain well.

Add Quinoa and Water to Rice Cooker

• Add rinsed quinoa and water to the pot based on package directions, generally:
  • 1 cup quinoa : 1 1/2 cups water
• For fluffier quinoa, add slightly more water.

Cook the Quinoa

• Secure pot in rice cooker and select the “brown rice” setting.
• Allow to cook until automated keep warm function activates.
• Fluff with a fork before serving.

Adjusting Rice Cooker Settings

If quinoa is too crunchy, add more water next time. For mushy quinoa, reduce water slightly.

Quinoa Variations

Quinoa offers a blank canvas for global flavors:

• Indian – stir in garam masala, raisins, cashews
• Mexican – mix in cumin, corn, black beans, salsa
• Mediterranean – add lemon, parsley, olives, feta
• Asian – top with soy sauce, sesame oil, scallions, ginger

Also delicious in:

• Salads – Add protein, texture, and nutty flavor
• Bowls – Base for roasted veggies and proteins
• Chili or stews – Hearty addition to thicken
• Stir fries – Quick cooking alternative to rice

FAQs: Quinoa in a Rice Cooker 

Do you need to rinse quinoa?

It’s recommended to rinse quinoa before cooking to remove the natural bitter coating called saponin. Rinsing prevents bitterness and also removes any dust or debris.

Is it better to soak quinoa before cooking?

Soaking quinoa for 5-10 minutes before cooking can make the seeds crunchier and help them cook faster. It’s not strictly necessary but can be beneficial.

Does quinoa cook faster than rice?

Yes, quinoa cooks much faster than rice. Quinoa takes around 15 minutes to cook whereas white rice takes 18-20 minutes and brown rice takes around 40 minutes.

What’s healthier, quinoa or rice?

Quinoa is generally considered healthier than white rice as it contains more protein, fiber, antioxidants, and beneficial plant compounds. However, brown rice has its nutritional benefits too. Quinoa has a low glycemic index which helps control blood sugar.

Conclusion: Quinoa in a Rice Cooker 

The rice cooker’s set-it-and-forget-it convenience produces light, fluffy quinoa with zero effort. Rinsing the quinoa well and using the brown rice setting are key for success. Quinoa’s mild taste and quick cooking time make it perfect for weeknight meals and creative global dishes. With a rice cooker, you can enjoy quinoa’s incredible nutrition in delicious, foolproof recipes.