Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Chickpeas
The name "quinoa" comes from the Quechua word "kinwa," and has been cultivated since at least 5,000 years ago. The grains have a very mild flavor, and have a fluffy texture when cooked. This recipe combines the goodness of quinoa with the nutritional benefits and savory taste of chickpeas, bell peppers, and onions.
I first discovered quinoa while traveling through the Andes Mountains in South America. I was immediately drawn to its nutty flavor and fluffy texture. After doing some research, I learned that quinoa is a complete protein, meaning that it contains all nine essential amino acids that the human body needs. I also learned that quinoa is a good source of fiber, iron, and magnesium. Intrigued, I began experimenting with different ways to cook quinoa. One of my favorite recipes is this quinoa and vegetable stir-fry with chickpeas. It's a quick and easy meal that's packed with flavor and nutrition.
Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Chickpeas Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Chickpeas Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Chickpeas Quinoa and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Chickpeas
Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 20 | Serves: 4
Ingredients
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup chopped onion
  • 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
  • 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
  • 1 (15 ounce) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions
  1. Rinse the quinoa under cold water.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the quinoa, vegetable broth, and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed.
  3. While the quinoa is cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  4. Add the onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the chickpeas and cumin to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 2 minutes.
  6. Fluff the quinoa with a fork and add it to the skillet with the vegetables.
  7. Stir to combine and cook until warmed through, about 1 minute.
  8. Serve immediately.
Why It Works
  • Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning that it contains all nine essential amino acids that the human body needs.
  • Quinoa is a good source of fiber, iron, and magnesium.
  • This recipe is quick and easy to make.
  • This recipe is packed with flavor and nutrition.