September is whole grain month. This is the perfect time to venture out and try a new grain: Quinoa.

What is Quinoa?

If you have never heard of Quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wah), you are in for a treat. It is a tiny but whole grain that originates from South America. This nutrient-rich and complete protein grain is drought resistant, and can grow well in poor soils without irrigation or fertilizer. It’s been designated a “super crop” by the United Nations, for its potential to feed the hungry poor of the world. This  recently rediscovered ancient grain was once called “the gold of the Incas,” who recognized its value in increasing the stamina of their warriors.  I feel I should let you in on a little secret  that even though we call quinoa a grain it is actually the seed of a plant related to beets, chard and spinach. So the leaves of the quinoa plants are also edible.

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