Best 2 Spicy Quinoa Pilaf Recipes

**Aromatic and Flavorful: Discover the Delights of Spicy Quinoa Pilaf and Its Variations**

Embark on a culinary journey with our exploration of spicy quinoa pilaf, a dish that tantalizes the taste buds with its vibrant flavors and aromatic spices. This versatile dish serves as a delectable side or main course, offering a delightful interplay of textures and a delightful medley of ingredients. Our collection of recipes provides a diverse range of options, catering to various dietary preferences and culinary inclinations. From the classic spicy quinoa pilaf, bursting with heat and spice, to the Mediterranean-inspired version infused with sun-dried tomatoes and briny olives, these recipes promise an unforgettable dining experience. Additionally, we venture into the realms of vegetarian and vegan delights, presenting a flavorful quinoa pilaf brimming with roasted vegetables and a zesty lemon-herb dressing, along with a protein-packed variation featuring succulent shrimp and a hint of smokiness. Whether you seek a hearty and comforting meal or a lighter and refreshing option, our selection of spicy quinoa pilaf recipes offers something for every palate.

Here are our top 2 tried and tested recipes!

SPICY QUINOA AND SPINACH PULAO (PILAF)

Spicy Quinoa and Spinach Pulao (Pilaf) image

This spicy quinoa pulao with Indian flavors is made with quinoa rather than rice for added protein!

Provided by charisma

Categories Side Dish Grain Side Dish Recipes

Time 35m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 17

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin (jeera)
1 ½ teaspoons ground coriander (dhana)
1 ½ teaspoons chile powder
1 teaspoon minced ginger
¾ teaspoon minced Thai chile pepper
¼ teaspoon pav bhaji masala
¼ teaspoon ground turmeric (haldi)
1 yellow onion, diced
1 ½ vine-ripened tomatoes, diced
4 cups finely chopped fresh spinach
3 cups water
1 ½ cups uncooked quinoa
1 cup chopped fresh cilantro, or to taste
1 lemon, cut into wedges

Steps:

Heat olive oil in a large wok over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let sizzle for 30 seconds. Add garlic, ground cumin, coriander, chile powder, ginger, chile pepper, pav bhaji masala, and turmeric; saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Stir in onion; saute until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in tomatoes and cook until the tomato smell goes away. Mix in spinach; cook until wilted, 2 to 3 minutes.
Pour water and quinoa into the wok. Bring to a simmer; cook, stirring occasionally, until water is absorbed, 8 to 12 minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and lemon wedges.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 354 calories, Carbohydrate 54.7 g, Fat 11.5 g, Fiber 9 g, Protein 12 g, SaturatedFat 1.5 g, Sodium 46.6 mg, Sugar 4.2 g

SPICY QUINOA PILAF

SPICY QUINOA PILAF image

Categories Side Sauté Low Fat Quick & Easy Wheat/Gluten-Free Stuffing/Dressing Winter

Yield 8 people

Number Of Ingredients 20

Ingredients

1.5 c quinoa
3 cups chicken broth (organic, fat free)
1 tbsp organic butter
1/2 yellow onion, chopped fine
1/2 purple onion, chopped fine
1/2 fennel bulb, chopped fine
2 tbsp chopped garlic
1 grated carrot
1/2 t salt
2 tsp yellow curry
2 tsp thyme
2 tbsp lemon juice
juice of 1/2 lime
lime zest - 1/2 lime
1 tbsp crushed red pepper
1 tsp black pepper
2 tsp honey
1 tbsp ground ginger
1/2 cup crasins
1 tbsp mustard

Steps:

melt butter in saute pan, place chopped veggies in pan with butter and saute till soft and lightly brown. Add spices, and saute 1 minute. Then add broth and rinsed quinoa, let cook until soft about 20 min, and then add crasins about 5 minutes until the end.

Tips:

Use a variety of vegetables. This recipe calls for onion, red bell pepper, and zucchini, but you can use any vegetables you like. Some other good options include carrots, celery, mushrooms, and broccoli.
Don't be afraid to experiment with different spices. The recipe calls for cumin, coriander, and paprika, but you can add any spices you like. Some other good options include chili powder, turmeric, and ginger.
Make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking. This will help to remove any bitter saponins that may be present.
Cook the quinoa according to the package directions. The cooking time will vary depending on the type of quinoa you use.
Fluff the quinoa with a fork before serving. This will help to separate the grains and make them light and fluffy.

Conclusion:

This spicy quinoa pilaf is a delicious and healthy side dish that can be served with a variety of main courses. It's also a great way to use up leftover quinoa. The recipe is easy to make and can be tailored to your own taste preferences. So next time you're looking for a quick and easy side dish, give this spicy quinoa pilaf a try. You won't be disappointed!