Quinoa Recipe- Golden Raisin & Mint Indian Pilaf

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Quinoa Recipe- Golden Raisin & Mint Indian Pilaf

Introduction

Hey everyone! I’m so excited to share this vibrant and flavorful quinoa pilaf with you. It’s a little twist on traditional Indian flavors, using quinoa as a base instead of rice. Honestly, I first made this when I was trying to incorporate more protein into our meals, and it quickly became a family favorite. It’s quick, easy, and bursting with freshness – perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch. You won’t believe how well these flavors come together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average quinoa dish. It’s a delightful fusion of Indian spices and the nutty goodness of quinoa. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

• Quick & Easy: Ready in under 20 minutes!
• Healthy & Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins.
• Flavorful: A beautiful blend of sweet, savory, and aromatic spices.
• Versatile: Great as a main course or a side dish.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious pilaf:

• 1 cup cooked red quinoa
• 1 teaspoon oil
• ½ red onion (chopped) – about a small onion
• 2 tablespoons green peas
• 2 tablespoons sweet corn
• 8 mint leaves (chopped)
• 1 teaspoon golden raisins
• ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
• ½ teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk about a few key ingredients and why they work so well in this recipe:

• Red Quinoa: I love red quinoa for its slightly nutty flavor and firm texture, which holds up beautifully in this pilaf. It’s also a nutritional powerhouse! 1 cup of cooked quinoa is roughly 185g.
• Garam Masala: This is the spice blend in Indian cooking. It’s warm, fragrant, and adds incredible depth of flavor. You can find it at most grocery stores or online. A good garam masala usually contains cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, cumin, coriander, and black pepper.
• Golden Raisins: These add a lovely sweetness and chewy texture. They’re a bit more flavorful than regular raisins, and their golden color looks beautiful in the pilaf. Plus, raisins are a good source of iron and potassium!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, make sure your quinoa is cooked according to the package instructions and set aside. Fluff it with a fork so it’s nice and light.
2. Heat the oil in a pan over medium heat. I like to use a non-stick pan for this, but any pan will work.
3. Add the cumin seeds and let them splutter for about 10 seconds. You’ll know they’re ready when they become fragrant and start to dance in the oil!
4. Stir in the golden raisins and cook until they plump up – usually 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 1-2 minutes. We want it softened, not browned.
6. Now, mix in the mint leaves, green peas, and sweet corn. Cook for just a minute, until everything is heated through.
7. Gently fold in the cooked quinoa, making sure everything is well combined.
8. Simmer for 2 minutes, then sprinkle in the garam masala and mix well. This helps the flavors meld together.
9. Remove from the heat, drizzle with lemon juice, and serve immediately. The lemon juice brightens everything up!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the quinoa! It should be fluffy, not mushy.
• If you don’t have fresh mint, you can use 1 teaspoon of dried mint, but fresh is always best.
• Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Everyone’s palate is different!

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is already naturally vegan!
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: Absolutely gluten-free. Quinoa is a naturally gluten-free grain.
• Spice Level – Mild/Adjustable: This recipe is on the milder side. If you like things spicier, add a pinch of red chili powder or a finely chopped green chili along with the onions.
• Festival Adaptation – Navratri/Fasting Friendly?: This can be adapted for some Navratri fasts! Check your specific fasting rules, as some avoid onions and garlic. You can omit the onion for a fasting-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

This pilaf is fantastic on its own, but here are a few ideas for serving it:

• With a side of raita (yogurt dip).
• Alongside grilled chicken or fish.
• As part of a larger Indian thali (platter).
• Simply enjoy it as a light and healthy lunch!

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. It might lose a little of its freshness, but it will still be delicious!

FAQs

• Is quinoa a good substitute for rice in Indian cooking? Absolutely! Quinoa offers a nutty flavor and a boost of protein. It works beautifully in pilafs, biryanis, and even as a side dish.
• Can I use brown quinoa instead of red quinoa? You can, but the texture will be slightly different. Brown quinoa takes longer to cook and has a chewier texture.
• How can I adjust the sweetness of this pilaf? If you prefer a less sweet pilaf, reduce the amount of golden raisins or omit them altogether.
• What is garam masala and where can I find it? Garam masala is a blend of warming spices commonly used in Indian cuisine. You can find it in most supermarkets in the spice aisle, or online.
• Can this pilaf be made ahead of time? You can cook the quinoa ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to assemble and cook the pilaf just before serving for the best flavor and texture.