17 Reviews of Quinoa Pilaf

From: FlemishMinx

On Jan 30, 2005

Tasty side dish that nicely accompanies many other main dishes (I served with duck). This is the first quinoa dish that I've prepared that my husband ate without complaining (in his opinion, it was the added flavor of the peas which he liked). Next time I would wait to add the peas until about the last 5 minutes (just to warm them) as they got a bit mushy after 15 minutes. Just a note to first-time quinoa cookers about the rinsing: it is very important to do so 2 or 3 times, agitating with your hands and until the water is clear to remove a natural substance which otherwise makes the quinoa "soapy" and bitter tasting. After doing so you can simply drain and proceed with the toasting. Thanks for posting, Toni!

From: Roosie

On May 29, 2005

Very good! I made with red quinoa, which was beautiful studded with the green peas. I think I have to agree with mermaid magic that this is probably supposed to be covered at step 5. I tried cooking it uncovered for a bit, but it didn't seem to be working very well, so I covered it. I used frozen peas rather than canned, adding in the last 5 minutes per FlemishMinx's suggestion. Nice flavors- I really appreciated the fact that the veggies were sauteed beforehand. A lot of pilafs I have made just call for the veggies to be added with the grain, and I'm not a fan of the flavor of boiled onions. We served this with an improvised Brazilian-style chicken dish and it was great. Thanks, Toni!

From: Kay Demonbren

On Feb 1, 2006

This was the first time I've tasted quinoa. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was pleasantly surprised at the nutty delicate flavor of this. I guess I thought it would taste "earthier". The only thing I would do differently next time is to omit the peas. Although I used a good brand of canned baby peas, to me the flavor of the peas just seemed to overpower the dish. I didn't even notice the onions in the dish; I diced them VERY fine, and they practically melted away, leaving only their delicious flavor. The mushrooms were a must. Overall, a nice recipe; one that I will probably make again.

From: mermaidmagic

On Mar 12, 2005

I love this! My first bite and I thought it was strange. I had a couple more bites and was hooked. Followed directions exactly - wasn't sure about whether or not to cover the pot in step #5, so I did (and that worked well). Was glad to read the review on rinsing this well before cooking to lose the bitterness. There wasn't a trace of bitter taste. I will be making this over and over again - maybe with some corn and carrots too - and some grilled chicken. So satisfying (hubby & I ate it for lunch). Thanks for posting Toni!

From: PeachyBaker

On Aug 13, 2007

Great wholesome taste. Coulda used a bit more flavoring... I'll try a bit of chilli flower or lime zest with cilantro next time. Good with a tomato dish.

From: mikekey

On Mar 9, 2008

This is a nice change from rice. I would add some spices or herbs next time (something to compliment the meat course). I used frozen peas and would add them near the end next time. I also used chicken broth instead of water, for more flavor.

From: ElishevaH

On Dec 11, 2006

I love this although my kids were not tempted. I doubled the amounts of vegetables, and used frozen baby peas. When I was in a hurry I skipped step 1, I am also not religious about rinsing the quinoa, and haven't noticed any bitterness. It reheats well, too.

From: DuChick

On Mar 19, 2008

This is a great, healthy alternative to a rice side dish. I love quinoa, its texture, and how it adapts to any meat entree. Next time, I'll use chicken broth instead of water, add more garlic and maybe some shredded carrot. The flavor is very mild and doesn't overpower your entree. Thanks Toni! Made and reviewed for 2008 Photo Tag.

From: scimietta99

On Jan 29, 2007

i liked this... added some diced red pepper (just for color really) and, like a previous 'rater' used frozen peas which I added at the last minute. i happened to have some grated parmesan in the fridge so we sprinkled that on top. left-overs were great eaten cold and made a nice lunch to take to work. i have prepared quinoa several times, but never toasted it first. i felt it have it a much better flavour tho. thanks toni, another winner!!

From: adinascotch

On Feb 9, 2007

i used frozen peas, all else as directed. was great!