Quinoa
Chenopodium quinoaQuinoa is a close relative of fat hen (Chenopodium album), which grows wild in Anatolia.
What is Quinoa?
Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) is a plant of the Amaranthaceae family. Traditions that use it: Andes. Part used: seeds.
What is Quinoa used for?
Traditional use: The Incas called quinoa the “mother grain” (chisaya mama); the emperor is said to have sown the first seeds of the season with a golden spade. Scientific evidence: traditional. A gluten-free seed containing all essential amino acids.
Is Quinoa safe?
Safety label: generally safe. Safe as food. If not rinsed well, the saponins can upset the stomach.
Traditional use
The Incas called quinoa the “mother grain” (chisaya mama); the emperor is said to have sown the first seeds of the season with a golden spade.
A staple in soups, breads and drinks around Lake Titicaca.
In nature
Mix-up risk
Relatives such as fat hen (C. album) look similar.
Preparation
Seeds are rinsed well to remove bitter saponins, then boiled.
What science says
A gluten-free seed containing all essential amino acids. Human studies of medicinal claims are limited.
Safety
Safe as food. If not rinsed well, the saponins can upset the stomach.
Similar plants
Sources
- ResearchNutrition facts and functional potential of quinoa, an ancient Andean grain: a review
- ResearchKinoanın besin profili, biyoaktif bileşenleri ve sağlığa etkileri (derleme)
- Botanical recordKew Plants of the World Online: Chenopodium quinoa
- Titles of research sources are summarised in Turkish on the Turkish page; links open the original English publications.
Written by Edanaz Tınmazlar · Last reviewed: · Türkçe