How to Cook Quinoa Perfectly
- PREP 5min
- COOK 15min
- TOTAL 20min
Our favorite way to make quinoa is on the stovetop. However, thanks to a few reader requests, we have added three more easy methods below so you can get perfectly fluffy quinoa no matter what kitchen appliance you have on hand.
Note that 1 cup of dry, uncooked quinoa makes about 3 cups of cooked quinoa. The ratio of liquid to quinoa is the same for all methods, except when using an Instant Pot (see note below).
You Will Need
1 cup (190 g) dry quinoa
2 cups (470 ml) water or broth (try homemade chicken stock, veggie broth, or bone broth)
Pinch fine sea salt (optional)
Directions
- How to Cook Quinoa on the Stove
1Place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cool running water for 30 to 60 seconds. (Alternatively, place the quinoa in a bowl, cover with cool water, move it around the bowl, drain, and repeat.)
2Shake the strainer to drain the excess liquid, then combine the quinoa and water (or broth) in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a low simmer. Cook, uncovered, until the liquid is absorbed, 10 to 15 minutes. (If making a larger batch, this may take up to 20 minutes.)
3Remove the pan from the heat, cover tightly with a lid, and let rest for 5 minutes to allow the grains to steam. Uncover and gently fluff with a fork.
- How to Cook Quinoa in the Microwave
1In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine 1 cup rinsed quinoa and 2 cups water (or broth). Cover with a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high until the liquid is reduced by about half, about 6 minutes.
2Carefully remove from the microwave (the bowl will be hot). Stir the quinoa, re-cover, and let stand until the remaining liquid is absorbed, 5 to 10 minutes. Fluff gently with a fork before serving.
- How to Cook Quinoa in a Rice Cooker
1Lightly brush the insert of a rice cooker with oil or butter. Add 1 cup rinsed quinoa and 2 cups water (or broth), stirring well to prevent sticking. Secure the lid and select the “white rice” or regular cooking cycle.
2When the cycle is complete, leave the lid closed and let the quinoa rest for 10 minutes on the “warm” setting (or with the machine turned off). Uncover and gently fluff with a fork before serving.
- How to Cook Quinoa in an Instant Pot
1Note: The Instant Pot requires less liquid than other methods. You will use a 1:1 ratio of quinoa to water here.
2Lightly brush the insert of an electric pressure cooker with oil or butter. Add 1 cup rinsed quinoa and 1 cup water (or broth), stirring well to prevent sticking. Secure the lid. Set the machine to cook on high pressure for 1 minute.
3Allow the pressure to release naturally for 12 minutes. Carefully release any remaining pressure, uncover, and gently fluff with a fork.
Adam and Joanne's Tips
- Storage: Store cooled quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Adding flavor: Stir a drizzle of olive oil, coconut oil, or butter into the warm, cooked quinoa. Fold in chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, chives, or cilantro) and finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice.
- The nutritional information provided below is an estimate.