Healthy Ramadan Suhoor Recipe: Quinoa Pilaf

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Written By: Editorial Team | Published : July 18, 2014 12:27 PM IST

quinoa-pilafSuhoor refers to the pre-dawn meal before fasting begins. Here's a great dish to start you day with -- quinoa pilaf.

This Quinoa Pilaf is packed with disease fighting and immune boosting substances called phytochemicals. These substances, along with nutrients in plant foods, are thought to protect against cancer and cardiovascular disease. Fun fact: One cup of quinoa contains 8 grams of protein and 5 grams of fiber.

Makes 8 servings

Quinoa can add variety to your diet and contains more protein than other grains.

1 yellow or red onion, chopped
1/2 cup chopped celery
1/2 cup chopped carrot
1 tablespoon minced garlic
2 teaspoons ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
2 cups dry quinoa, washed and dried
3 cups boiling water or vegetable broth (add 1 teaspoon salt if using water or unsalted broth)

Saut onion, celery, carrot, and garlic until they start to caramelize or turn brown. Add cumin, oregano, and quinoa. Stir constantly and cook for about 3 more minutes to allow spices and quinoa to toast. Add boiling salted water or vegetable broth. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes or until all the liquid has completely absorbed and the quinoa has 'bloomed.' Do not stir during cooking and make sure the lid is tight to prevent moisture from escaping. Remove from heat and allow quinoa to sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Add cilantro or parsley, if using. Fluff with a fork and serve.

Stored in a covered container in the refrigerator, leftover Quinoa Pilaf will keep for up to 3days.

Tip: For a variation, omit cumin and oregano and add 1 teaspoon dried thyme, rosemary, and/or sage.

Per serving

  • Calories: 172
  • Fat: 2.6 g
  • Saturated Fat: 0.3 g
  • Calories from Fat: 13.8%
  • Cholesterol: 0 mg
  • Protein: 6 g
  • Carbohydrates: 32 g
  • Sugar: 3.6 g
  • Fiber: 3.1 g
  • Sodium: 318 mg
  • Calcium: 45 mg
  • Iron: 4.4 mg
  • Vitamin C: 1.7 mg
  • Beta Carotene: 647 mcg
  • Vitamin E: 0.8 mg

Source: The Survivor's Handbook: Eating Right for Cancer Survival by Neal D. Barnard, M.D. and Jennifer Reilly, R.D.

Image source: Kathy Patalsky

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