Spicy Peruvian Quinoa Delight
Experience the vibrant flavors of Peru with this Spicy Peruvian Quinoa Delight. This side dish combines fluffy quinoa with savory chicken broth, creamy heavy cream, and a kick of sriracha that elevates any meal. The addition of crunchy baby lima beans and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a delightful texture and richness. Finished with a zesty splash of orange juice and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, this dish is perfect for pairing with grilled fish or chicken, or can be enjoyed on its own as a delicious and nutritious vegetarian option. Dive into this flavorful creation and let it transport your taste buds to South America!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
quinoa
1 cup (rinsed)
chicken broth
2 cups (liquid)
frozen baby lima beans
16 ounces (thawed and rinsed (about 2 cups))
heavy cream
2 tablespoons (liquid)
sriracha hot chili sauce
2 tablespoons (sauce)
sun-dried tomatoes
3.5 ounces (chopped)
fresh lemon juice
1.5 tablespoons (liquid)
Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup (grated)
orange juice
1/4 cup (liquid)
Instructions
1
Rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any bitterness before cooking.
2
In a large saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
3
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the quinoa simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the liquid has been absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy.
4
In a separate small bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, sriracha hot chili sauce, lemon juice, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes until well combined.
5
Once the quinoa is cooked, remove it from the heat and gently fold in the tomato mixture, ensuring it evenly coats the quinoa.
6
Add the thawed lima beans, orange juice, and grated Parmesan cheese to the quinoa. Stir everything together until well mixed.
7
Return the saucepan to low heat, and allow the mixture to warm through for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese melts completely.
8
Serve hot as a side dish or main course, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese if desired.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spicy Peruvian Quinoa Delight?
It is a flavorful Peruvian-inspired side dish featuring fluffy quinoa, creamy heavy cream, sriracha, lima beans, and sun-dried tomatoes.
What are the primary ingredients for this recipe?
The main ingredients include 1 cup of quinoa, chicken broth, frozen baby lima beans, heavy cream, sriracha, sun-dried tomatoes, lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, and orange juice.
How long does it take to cook the quinoa?
The quinoa should simmer for 10-15 minutes after reaching a boil until all liquid is absorbed.
Is this recipe spicy?
Yes, the dish contains 2 tablespoons of sriracha hot chili sauce to give it a noticeable kick.
Is this recipe vegetarian?
As written with chicken broth it is not strictly vegetarian, but it can be easily adapted by using vegetable broth instead.
Is Spicy Peruvian Quinoa Delight gluten-free?
Yes, this dish is tagged as gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
How do I prepare the quinoa before cooking?
You should rinse the quinoa under cold water to remove any natural bitterness before starting the cooking process.
How much liquid is needed to cook the quinoa?
You will need 2 cups of chicken broth for 1 cup of quinoa.
What type of lima beans should I use?
The recipe calls for 16 ounces of frozen baby lima beans, which should be thawed and rinsed.
How much sriracha is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of sriracha hot chili sauce.
What role does orange juice play in this dish?
Orange juice adds a zesty splash and bright acidity that complements the creamy and spicy elements.
How do I prepare the sun-dried tomatoes?
The recipe specifies using 3.5 ounces of chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
What kind of cheese is used for the topping?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese.
Can I serve this as a main course?
Yes, while often served as a side, it is hearty enough to be enjoyed as a nutritious vegetarian-style main dish.
What should I pair this dish with?
It pairs excellently with grilled fish or grilled chicken.
What is the first step in cooking the quinoa?
Combine the rinsed quinoa and chicken broth in a large saucepan and bring to a rolling boil.
How do I mix the sauce components?
In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sriracha, lemon juice, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
When do I add the tomato and cream mixture?
Fold it into the cooked quinoa after it has been removed from the heat.
At what point are the lima beans added?
Add the thawed lima beans along with the orange juice and Parmesan cheese after the tomato mixture is folded in.
How long should the final mixture be heated?
Return the saucepan to low heat for about 5 minutes or until the cheese melts completely.
How much heavy cream is required?
The recipe uses 2 tablespoons of heavy cream.
Can I use fresh lemon juice?
Yes, the recipe specifies 1.5 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice.
What is the texture of the dish?
The dish offers a combination of fluffy quinoa, creamy sauce, and crunchy baby lima beans.
Does this dish work as a rice alternative?
Yes, it is tagged as a rice alternative, providing a high-protein substitute for traditional rice sides.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 9 ingredients in total.
What heat setting is used for simmering?
Once the broth boils, reduce the heat to low to simmer the quinoa.
Is the Parmesan cheese stirred in or just sprinkled?
It is stirred into the mixture to melt, though extra can be sprinkled on top when serving.
What region inspires this recipe?
The recipe is inspired by the vibrant flavors of South America, specifically Peru.
Do I need to stir the quinoa while it simmers?
Yes, the instructions suggest stirring occasionally while it simmers.
What should I do if the quinoa is still bitter?
Ensure you rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water before cooking, as this removes the saponin coating that causes bitterness.