Quinoa is not a grass, but rather a pseudocereal botanically related to spinach and amaranth ( Amaranthus spp. ), and originated in the Andean region of northwestern South America. It was first used to feed livestock 5.2–7.0 thousand years ago, and for human consumption 3–4 thousand years ago in the Lake Titicaca basin of Peru and Bolivia.
Where is quinoa grown?
Quinoa is planted in Idaho where a variety developed and bred specifically for the high-altitude Snake River Plain is the largest planted variety in North America. Several countries within Europe have successfully grown quinoa on a commercial scale.
Is quinoa domesticated twice?
A second bottleneck may have occurred when quinoa was domesticated from its unknown but possible wild tetraploid form. It might have been domesticated twice : once in the high Andes and a second time in the Chilean and Argentinean lowlands.
Why is quinoa so popular these days?
In the past decade, quinoa has gained a much wider worldwide popularity. Quinoa is known as a source of healthy nutrients, particularly for its protein contents. It has been a popular alternative for people with gluten intolerance, as well as enjoyed by many others.
Well, the United Nations General Assembly declared 2013 as the “International Year of Quinoa” in recognition of the ancestral practices of the Andean people, who have preserved it as a food for present and future generations, through knowledge and practices of living in harmony with nature.
Does quinoa go out of date?
Raw quinoa can last for 2 to 3 years from the production date when stored properly. Don’t forget to observe this date on the label. If you still have raw quinoa that has passed the date, it may still be edible.
Another frequent question is “How can you tell if quinoa is bad?”.
I discovered since quinoa has a long shelf life if kept dry, it is hard to tell if it has gone bad. It generally does not become rancid or smell. Cooked quinoa that has gone bad will show a loss of texture as it hardens and then can grow mold. There are, of course, certain health risks associated.
This of course begs the question “Does quinoa expire or go bad?”
But remember, like a lot of other seeds, it usually has a best by date and not an expiration date. Because of this, you can safely use it beyond the stamped best by date. How to tell if Quinoa is bad, rotten or spoiled? Practicing proper hygiene and food safety techniques will help prevent foodborne illness.
Can you leave cooked quinoa outside?
It can also save you money since quinoa can be quite expensive. There is no other place that belongs to your cooked quinoa, other than your fridge. Cooked quinoa is perishable food that should not sit at room temperature for long. It is advisable to not leave it outside for more than two hours.