What is the ratio for baking with quinoa flour vs. all purpose flour? And what texture does it provide? - Karen
Hi Karen, We must first answer your question with a question -
What are you baking and what are the key ingredients? We ask this because the ratio of quinoa flour to AP will vary, depending on the other flavors in the recipe.
It sounds like you may have used quinoa flour before Karen -- but if you are unsure of how it will taste as a 100% replacement for regular white flour, then your best bet is to try half quinoa flour, half AP. Again, this will depend on the other flavors. Some flavors work well and compliment the nutty taste of quinoa and others are a bit trickier.
So the short and complicated answer is that the ratio of quinoa flour to AP will almost always depend on the other ingredients in the recipe.
In regard to the texture, that really depends on what kind of flour you buy. Most brands on the market are fairly fine and powdery, giving your baking what has been referred to as a "truffle-like" texture (if 100% of the required flour used is quinoa flour). You can buy quinoa flour that is more coarse direct from farmers, online or even grind it yourself, but some folks don't care for the slight "gritty" texture of coarser flours.
All the best and happy quinoa cooking!
Patricia & Carolyn
Quinoa 365: The Everyday Superfood
Sometimes quinoa tastes bitter, can I remove that? - Christelle
Thanks for your question Christelle!
A few tips on how to eliminate any bitter taste in your quinoa:
Rinsing- Bitterness can be best eliminated by washing your quinoa in a strainer under running water and rubbing the grains gently between your fingers for about 3 minutes. (or longer if you like). You can also try soaking it for 15 or 20 minutes before rinsing it.
Brand- Bitterness can vary with brand type, as washing/processing methods can differ by producer, so try a few different brands to see which one you prefer.
Flavor - Flavor combinations can really play a role. Combine your quinoa with flavors that you enjoy such as spices, vegetables, fruits, nuts and meats if you like. To change the flavor a bit, you may want to try cooking it in a soup base or a light coconut milk instead of water.
Cook and enjoy!
Patricia & Carolyn
Quinoa 365: The Everyday Superfood
