Name: Easy Curried Quinoa (Vegan) Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Indian
Ingredients: 1⅛ cups (200 g) quinoa, rinsed; 1½ cups (360 ml) water; ½ teaspoon fine sea salt; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon turmeric powder; 1 teaspoon cumin powder; 1 teaspoon onion seeds; ⅔ teaspoon garam masala powder; ⅔ teaspoon coriander powder; ½ teaspoon chilli flakes; 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 cup (140 g) frozen peas (petits pois preferred); 3 tablespoons coconut milk; 2 tablespoons coconut oil; Cilantro (fresh coriander), finely chopped for garnish

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Introduction

Easy Curried Quinoa is a flavorful and wholesome vegan dish that combines fragrant spices with tender quinoa and sweet peas. This simple recipe is perfect for a nutritious weeknight meal or a hearty side dish.

A close-up of a large white bowl filled with cooked yellow quinoa mixed with small green peas, garnished with finely chopped green herbs on top. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. Behind the bowl, there is a stack of three white plates with two forks placed on top, and a bunch of fresh green parsley sits on a wooden cutting board to the right. The surface is a white marbled texture, and the lighting highlights the vibrant colors of the quinoa and peas. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1⅛ cups (200 g) quinoa, rinsed
1½ cups (360 ml) water
1 teaspoon turmeric powder
1 teaspoon cumin powder
1 teaspoon onion seeds
⅔ teaspoon garam masala powder
⅔ teaspoon coriander powder
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
½ teaspoon chili flakes
1 bay leaf
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 cup (140 g) frozen peas (petits pois recommended)
3 tablespoons coconut milk
2 tablespoons coconut oil
Fresh cilantro (coriander), finely chopped for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: In a pot, heat the coconut oil over medium heat. Add the turmeric, cumin, onion seeds, garam masala, coriander, chili flakes, bay leaf, fresh ginger, and garlic. Cook gently for about 2 minutes, stirring often to release the spices’ aroma without burning them.
Step 2: Add the rinsed quinoa to the pot and stir thoroughly to coat it with the spices and oil.
Step 3: Pour in the water and add the sea salt. Cover the pot and bring it to a boil.
Step 4: Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for 15 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 5: About 10 minutes into cooking, place the frozen peas in a small bowl and cover with hot water to warm through. After a few minutes, drain the peas.
Step 6: Once the quinoa is cooked, remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the warmed peas and coconut milk until well combined. Adjust seasoning if needed.
Step 7: Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

Heat the spices gently and briefly to avoid burning and bitterness.
There is no need to pre-soak the quinoa, making this recipe quick and easy.
For added texture, toast the quinoa in the oil a little longer before adding water.
Substitute coconut oil with olive oil for a different flavor profile.
Add chopped vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen the mixture if it has thickened. You can also freeze the curried quinoa for up to 3 months; thaw before reheating.

How to Serve

A white round bowl filled with two layers: the bottom layer is yellow quinoa mixed with small green peas, giving a grainy and slightly lumpy texture, while the top layer is sprinkled with finely chopped dark green herbs, adding a fresh touch. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl on the right side. Next to the bowl is a white cloth with blue stripes, all placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Do I need to rinse quinoa before cooking?

Yes, rinsing quinoa removes its natural coating called saponin, which can taste bitter. Rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear for the best flavor.

Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh peas can be added towards the end of cooking in place of frozen peas. Just make sure they are cooked until tender before mixing into the quinoa.