Peruvian-Style Plant-Based Quinoa Chaufa Recipe

                                     Peruvian-Style Plant-Based Quinoa Chaufa Recipe

This dish is a tasty and nutritious take on Peruvian cuisine. It features quinoa, mixed vegetables, and spices, making it ideal for a quick and satisfying meal.

Servings: 2

Preparation Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Total Time: 35-40 minutes

Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Why You'll Love This Recipe

·       Quick and Easy: This recipe is simple and fast to make, perfect for busy weeknights. 

·       Nutritious: Quinoa provides a good amount of protein and fiber, making this dish a healthy choice. 

·       Flavorful: The mix of spices and herbs offers a delicious taste. 

INGREDIENTS

·       1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained. 

·       2 cups of water or vegetable broth 

·       1 tablespoon olive oil 

·       1 small onion, diced. 

·       2 cloves garlic, minced. 

·       1 cup mixed vegetables (like bell peppers, carrots, and green beans) 

·       1 teaspoon ground cumin 

·       1 teaspoon paprika 

·       Salt and pepper to taste. 

·       Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish. 

·       2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (optional) 

·       1 tablespoon chopped fresh ají amarillo peppers (optional) 

Tools & Equipment

·       Large skillet or wok 

·       Measuring cups and spoons 

·       Spatula 

·       Cutting board 

How to Make Peruvian-Style Plant-Based Quinoa Chaufa

Step 1.

Cook Quinoa: Prepare quinoa according to package instructions using 2 cups of water or vegetable broth. 

Step 2.

Heat Oil: Warm the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. 

Step 3.

Cook Onion and Garlic: Sauté the onion and garlic until soft, about 3-4 minutes. 

Step 4.

Add Vegetables: Toss in the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes. 

Step 5.

Add Spices: Stir in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. 

Step 6.

Add Cooked Quinoa: Incorporate the cooked quinoa into the skillet or wok and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. 

Step 7.

Add Soy Sauce or Tamari: If using, add soy sauce or tamari and stir-fry for another minute. 

Step 8.

Garnish: Top with fresh cilantro leaves and chopped ají amarillo peppers if desired. 

Step 9.

Serve: Serve hot and enjoy! 

Notes for Substitution

·       Quinoa: Substitute with brown rice or other whole grains. 

·       Vegetables: Feel free to change the vegetables, using options like broccoli or sweet potatoes. 

·       Spices: Adjust the spices to your liking, adding more or less as desired. 

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

v  Calories: 400 

v  Fat: 10g 

v  Carbohydrates: 60g 

v  Protein: 15g 

Tips and Variations

·       Add Some Heat: Incorporate red pepper flakes or sriracha for a spicy kick. 

·       Use Different Spices: Experiment with various spice blends, like Peruvian or Latin American, for different flavors. 

·       Make it a Meal: Pair quinoa chaufa with grilled chicken or tofu to create a more filling dish. 

FAQs

1. Q: Can I use leftover quinoa? 

A: Yes, you can use leftover quinoa. Just reheat it before adding. 

2. Q: Can I customize the recipe to my taste? 

A: Absolutely, you can modify the recipe by adding or swapping out ingredients. 

3. Q: Is quinoa a reliable source of protein? 

A: Yes, quinoa is rich in protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice. 

Additional Tips

·       Use High-Quality Ingredients: Choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor. 

·       Don't Overcook: Avoid overcooking the quinoa or vegetables; they can turn mushy. 

·       Serve with Love: Present the quinoa chaufa with care and enjoy the wonderful flavors!