Instant Pot Quinoa
on Jul 06, 2023, Updated Jun 28, 2024
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If you haven’t tried making Instant Pot Quinoa, you’re in for a treat. Today we are exploring the ins and outs of cooking quinoa using the Instant Pot, and trust me, it’s a game-changer!
First things first, let’s talk about what makes quinoa so awesome. It’s a super nutritious grain that’s packed with protein, fiber, and essential amino acids. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions. Quinoa is incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from salads and bowls to side dishes and even desserts. And when you cook it in an Instant Pot, you’ll achieve perfectly fluffy quinoa in no time at all.
Instant Pot Quinoa
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of cooking quinoa in an Instant Pot. The beauty of using this magical kitchen appliance is that it takes all the guesswork out of the equation. No more hovering over a stovetop, anxiously waiting for your quinoa to cook just right. With the Instant Pot, you can set it and forget it (well, not entirely, but you get the idea).
Once you put the quinoa in the Instant Pot, make sure you loosen it up so it is evenly distributed in the pot. Then simply put the lid on and set for high pressure for 2 minutes. Yes, 2 minutes-that’s it! Now, just naturally release the pressure and you are on your way. Too easy!
For this recipe I did not rinse or soak this quinoa. I have tested both ways and soaking and rinsing are not required if your quinoa is prewashed. If it is not prewashed (it will say on the package) then you’ll need to rinse it before using.
Ingredients
- Water: or you can use broth chicken or vegetable broth as well for a different flavor
- Quinoa
- Salt
Recipe Instructions
- Pour water or broth into the Instant Pot and add quinoa and salt.
- Mix gently to distribute the quinoa evenly.
- Close the lid, set the Instant Pot to HIGH pressure for 2 minutes, and ensure the valve is closed.
- Allow natural pressure release for 12 minutes, then release any remaining pressure by flipping the valve.
- Carefully open the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork.
- Serve and enjoy!
Frequently Asked Questions
Typically, you’ll want to use a 1:1.5 ratio of quinoa to liquid. So, for every cup of quinoa, you’ll use 1 1/2 cups of water or broth.
The actual cooking time for quinoa in the Instant Pot is only 2 minutes. However, keep in mind that it will take some additional time for the Instant Pot to come to pressure before the cooking time starts.
For quinoa, it’s recommended to allow natural pressure release for 12 minutes after the cooking time is complete. After that, you can perform a quick release by carefully turning the steam release valve to release any remaining pressure.
Cooked quinoa is incredibly versatile. You can use it as a base for salads, stir-fries, grain bowls, or even as a side dish alongside roasted vegetables or proteins.
More Recipes
- Greek Quinoa Salad
- Healthy One Pot Quinoa Taco Casserole
- Slow Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers with Quinoa, Black Beans, and Corn
If you’ve tried this Instant Pot Quinoa recipe or any other recipe on Bless This Mess, then don’t forget to rate the recipe and leave me a comment below! I would love to hear about your experience making it. And if you snapped some pictures of it, share it with me on Instagram so I can repost on my stories.
Instant Pot Quinoa
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cup water, (you can use broth chicken or vegetable broth as well for a different flavor)
- 1 cup quinoa
- ¼ teaspoon salt, optional
Instructions
- Pour the water into the Instant Pot inner pot. Add the quinoa and salt.
- Mix so the quinoa loosens up and is more evenly distributed into the pot.
- Put the lid on and choose HIGH pressure for 2 minutes. Make sure the valve is closed.
- Allow for natural pressure release for 12 minutes and then flip the valve to release any remaining pressure.
- One the pressure cooker is no longer sealed, carefully open the lid. Use a fork to fluff the quinoa.
- Serve and Enjoy!
Notes
- I did not rinse or soak this quinoa for this recipe. I have tested both ways and soaking and rinsing are not required if your quinoa is prewashed. If it is not prewashed (it will say on the package) then you’ll need to rinse it before using.
- Storage: Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the fridge and up to 6 months in the freezer for the best flavor.
- Re-warm: let it come up to room temperature if you are serving it as a cold salad. Reheats well in the microwave.
Nutrition
The Instant Pot has truly revolutionized the way we cook, and quinoa is just one of the many grains that benefit from this fantastic appliance. Instant Pot quinoa cooks up quick and is healthy to boot.
