There are several varieties of quinoa that grow in many colours. In South America the three most commonly cultivated and consumed are the red, white and black varieties. They differ from each other and from our Quinta Quinoa in many elements such as taste, texture, cooking time and nutritional content. The Katan Kitchens team has conducted extensive research trials over the past five years to determine that white or golden quinoa, like our own Quinta variety, grows best in Ontario soils. We often get questions from consumers on what the differences in colour mean for them – is there different nutritional value, flavour, cooking directions, etc.? So we set out to set the record straight!
White quinoa is cooked with most commonly as it has a light flavour that will not overpower other ingredients in a recipe. Of the three colours, it also has the lightest texture and is fluffier than the other colours once cooked. White quinoa also cooks quicker and is less crunchy than other coloured varieties. Our organoleptic tests at Quinta have revealed that the Quinta seed variety requires less water to be cooked to the same consistency as other white quinoa varieties. The cooking instructions on our packaging are formulated specifically for Quinta Quinoa!
Red quinoa has a heavier texture compared to white, and also has a more prominent flavour that is often described as “nutty”. The heavy texture of red quinoa allows it to hold up very well when cooked. This texture makes red quinoa a great cold salad ingredient! It also maintains its red colour after cooking, so if you are looking to add some colour to a dish, red quinoa can be a great addition.
Black quinoa is the least commonly used as it is the most difficult to find, and production of it in South America is less than white and red varieties. While similar in texture to red quinoa, black quinoa has an “earthier” flavour and tends to taste sweeter than white quinoa. Like red quinoa, the black varieties also hold up well and maintain their colour once cooked.
While we all know that quinoa is highly nutritious, there are some nutritional differences between red, black, white varieties and Quinta Quinoa. Typically, all three quinoa colours have similar protein content, although our Ontario grown Quinta Quinoa surpasses all commercial varieties with 10g of protein per 50g (1/4 cup) serving. Quinoa is considered the most complete plant-based protein meaning it contains all essential amino acids making it a great protein alternative for vegetarians and vegans. Ordinarily black quinoa is highest in fibre with a one-cup serving having 5 grams of fibre however; Quinta Quinoa has 6g of fibre in a quarter cup! In terms of protein, white, red and black varieties have 6 g per serving. Quinta Quinoa is the only quinoa on the market with 10g of protein per serving! Check out the side-by-side view of the nutritional facts tables of red, white and black quinoa compared to Quinta Quinoa at the bottom of this blog!
While the differences between red, white and black quinoa varieties are subtle, Quinta Quinoa is still nutritionally superior to all current commercial varieties. Foods high in the above-mentioned nutrients, contribute to a healthy digestive system, strong bones and muscles and healthy oxygen circulation! Choosing a quinoa colour for your recipe can depend on personal preferences, the flavour profile you are looking for and the availability of colour in your area. No matter what type of diet you follow, quinoa, especially Quinta Quinoa, is a superfood you should consider trying! And if you can’t decide between the different colours, you can always combine them all for a colourful meal!
Happy quinoa eating!
References
http://jenniferskitchen.com/2014/02/whats-the-difference-between-white-black-and-red-and-other-colors-of-quinoa.html
http://www.thekitchn.com/whats-the-difference-between-red-and-golden-quinoa-200167
http://www.livestrong.com/article/187283-difference-between-red-regular-quinoa/
http://www.livestrong.com/article/363809-red-quinoa-white-quinoa-nutritional-comparison/
http://www.alterecofoods.com/product/royal-black-quinoa/
http://www.alterecofoods.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/01/Black-Nutrition-Facts.jpg
http://www.edenfoods.com/store/images/products/nlea/106905.gif
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11 Responses
Hello, I purchased your Quinta Quinoa, but your receipe for
” blueberry lemon and quinoa slice” calls for quinoa flakes,
is there a difference?
By the way I love your product.
Thank you
Hi Shirley,
So glad to hear that you enjoy our product! Quinoa flakes are essentially quinoa seeds rolled/ flattened into a thin flake very similar to rolled oats. We do not currently sell quinoa flakes however you can purchase them at most major grocery stores or at Bulk Barn. Hope this answers your question!
Two questions…..1 Why does your quinoa have more protein than other brands?
2 Can I get this product in the states?
Thank you for reaching out!
Quinta Quinoa has been naturally bred (Non-GMO) to obtain a higher-nutrient product.
We are working towards having Quinta Quinoa available on Amazon.com in the next couple months, stay tuned!
Why does your product have so much more iron and magnesium than the other products listed? Are these in your product naturally?
Hello Barbara, thank you for visiting Quinta Quinoa’s website and inquiring about our product’s nutritional content.
Quinta Quinoa has been naturally bred (Non-GMO) to obtain a higher-nutrient product.
Is your product organic?
It is non-GMO. It’s not organic because we add nitrogen to the soil, but there are no pesticides registered for quinoa and we test it to make sure there is no pesticides.
Am looking for high protein foods. I have noted your Quinta quinoa has the highest amount. Where is it sold in Vancouver BC ?
Hithere!
We are sold at many supermarkets and independent stores in Canada, as well as Amazon.ca and Amazon.com!
For a detailed list, please click here.
We are not in many stores yet in BC, so likely best to buy it from Amazon or ask your favourite store to bring us in! : )