Description
From the manufacturer

What is Quinoa?
Quinoa is an ancient crop that has been harvested in the Andean Mountains for over 6,000 years. Unlike commonly consumed cereals such as wheat, corn and rice, quinoa is considered to be a pseudocereal. Pseudocereals are crops that contain seeds that are whole grains, gluten-free and higher in protein and other nutrients. Quinoa is easy to digest and adds culinary flare to ordinary cuisine, enjoyed as a complete meal or side dish any day of the week.
Viva Naturals Organic Whole Grain Quinoa
Cultivating the Golden Grain of the Andes
Cherished as the ‘Gold of the Incas’, warriors in ancient civilizations looked to quinoa for increased stamina and strength in preparation for their battles. Now an ancient South American staple, our quinoa is cultivated from the majestic Andes Mountains where quinoa grows in high flat plains at extreme temperatures, ideal for optimal growth. Our traditional ivory grains are larger in size compared to existing variations of quinoa, lending an incredibly soft texture and delicate mouthfeel once prepared.
- QAI Certified Organic
- Non-GMO Project Verified
- Gluten-Free Grain
- Complete Vegetarian Protein
- De-Saponized to Enhance Flavor
- Neutral Color and Mild Flavor
- Simple to Prepare
The Viva Naturals Difference
While the majority of quinoa products require up to 24 hours of soaking, Viva Naturals limits rinsing and soaking time by carefully removing quinoa’s natural bitter coating known as ‘saponins’. Saponins are undesirable waxy, soapy substances that are known to alter flavor and significantly increase preparation time. Traditionally quinoa is chemically altered to rid the grains of its harsh exterior, removing desirable nutrients such as fiber, vitamins and minerals. Our quinoa is mechanically de-saponized without the use of solvents or harsh chemicals to preserve quinoa’s extensive nutritional properties while elevating taste.
Sourced directly from the reclusive Altiplano region at high Andean plateaus, our Bolivian quinoa is cultivated at soft mountain peaks under optimal sunlight and chilly winds, contributing to its unique characteristics. Once prepared our quinoa lends a smooth, light texture, attributed to the larger size of Altiplano quinoa, that is incredibly soft and pleasant on the palate. Rich in fiber, essential amino acids like lysine, and vitamins and minerals like potassium, iron and magnesium, Viva Naturals Organic Whole Grain Quinoa contributes to a well-balanced diet and is a must-have for your everyday kitchen requirements.

Source of Dietary Fiber
As a pseudocereal, Viva Naturals’ quinoa is considered to be a whole grain and is therefore higher in fiber than traditional cereals. Dietary recommendations suggest men and women should consume 38 grams and 25 grams of fiber per day, respectively, to help maintain a well balanced diet. Our quinoa contains 3 grams of dietary fiber per serving and is consumed for its benefits including promoting satiety and regularity, cutting cravings and regulating blood sugar levels.

Complete Vegetarian Protein
Our quinoa is a complete protein source containing all of the essential amino acids, making it highly suitable for vegetarians who typically follow a plant-based diet. Essential amino acids are those that cannot be made by the body alone and must therefore be obtained through the diet. The U.S. Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is 0.8 grams per kilogram of body mass, or about 0.4 grams per pound. Each serving of Viva Naturals Organic Whole Grain Quinoa contains 6 grams of protein.

Neutral Color and Mild Flavor
Aesthetically similar to rice, quinoa can easily be substituted for brown or white rice without altering the flavor of your favorite dishes. White quinoa is neutral in color and lends a pleasant nutty flavor, pairing nicely as a nutritious side dish or complete well-balanced meal. Even the toughest of food critics will fall in love with our delicious quinoa with its delicate mouthfeel and versatility in any recipe.

Gluten-Free Grain
Quinoa has gained popularity as a nutritious and satisfying gluten-free grain, serving as an excellent replacement to traditional wheat products. While white and brown rice are also gluten-free and suitable alternatives, quinoa lends an unsurpassed nutrition profile with its amino acids, B vitamins, iron, fiber and protein in every serving. For those following a gluten-free diet, our quinoa can be consumed as a breakfast, snack, lunch or dinner, satisfying hunger all throughout the day.

Satiating Side Dish
Our quinoa serves as a nutritious and satiating side dish, complementing any vegetarian or non-vegetarian meal. To prepare quinoa, simply rinse prior to boiling for about 10 seconds. For every one cup of quinoa add two cups of water. Begin by placing one cup of quinoa and two cups of water in a medium-sized saucepan. Allow the quinoa to simmer on medium heat, covered, for 15 minutes or until water has completely evaporated. Remove from heat and allow quinoa to cool for five minutes, fluff with fork and serve. One cup of dry quinoa yields three cups of cooked quinoa.

Hearty Breakfast Cereal
As an alternative to oatmeal, quinoa serves as a nutritious hot or cold breakfast cereal due its pleasantly neutral taste and mild aroma. Prepare quinoa ahead of time and store in your refrigerator to replace everyday cereals lacking the abundant nutrition found in our delightful quinoa. Serve with milk or milk alternative, fruit, sweetener of choice and cinnamon for a protein-filled breakfast and rich fiber goodness in every spoonful.

Dessert Pudding
Enjoy an alternative to sticky rice pudding with our quinoa for increased nutrition but same great mouthfeel and taste. Simply mix three cups of whole milk or a milk alternative, two tablespoons of vanilla extract, ¼ cup agave nectar and pinch of salt in a saucepan and allow to simmer. Add one cup of Viva Naturals Organic Whole Grain Quinoa (rinsed) and cook for 30 minutes, stirring frequently. Once thickened remove from heat and serve warm or cold. Top with your choice of fruit, nuts, spices and sweetener for a guilt-free satisfying dessert.

Quinoa Flour
To enhance your gluten-free culinary experience, turn ordinary quinoa grains into a hearty gluten-free quinoa flour. Simply blend a desired amount of Viva Naturals Organic Whole Grain Quinoa in a high-speed food processor for two minutes until grains become granular. Quinoa flour can be substituted at a 1-1 ratio to traditional grain flours. Satisfy your guilty pleasures while heightening the nutritional value of gluten-free homemade breads, cakes, muffins and delectable cupcakes!

Side Dish

Breakfast Cereal

Dessert Pudding

Quinoa Flour

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How is quinoa prepared?
A: One cup of dry quinoa yields three cups of cooked quinoa. Simply rinse the quinoa and apply a 2-1 ratio of water to quinoa. Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce it to low heat. Allow the quinoa to simmer covered and cook for 15 minutes, or until water is absorbed and remove from heat. Let the quinoa cool for 5 minutes, fluff with fork and serve.
Q: How many servings of quinoa may I consume per day?
A: Percent Daily Values, recommended dietary guidelines based on a 2,000 calorie diet, suggest a maximum of 300g of carbohydrates per day. Each ¼ cup (dry) serving of Viva Naturals Organic Whole Grain Quinoa contains 30g representing 10% of your daily total. The number of daily servings is based on each individual as his or her goals are unique.
Q: Does quinoa require rinsing prior to use?
A: Typically quinoa is rinsed to remove bitter saponins which comprise the outer exterior of quinoa grains. Our quinoa is mechanically de-saponized, removing unwanted saponins and limiting rinse time. We recommend running cold water over our quinoa grains through a sieve for roughly one minute to ensure any remaining debris are removed.
Q: What are the differences between quinoa varieties?
A: Quinoa exists in a variety of colors, most commonly white, red and black varieties. White is often preferred over existing varieties due to its neutral properties and is easiest to incorporate into recipes without altering flavor or appearance.
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