Quinoa Flour

What Is Quinoa Flour?

Quinoa flour is a flour made by grinding the seeds of quinoa, a “pseudo-cereal” native to the Andes. Since quinoa is botanically not a cereal grain, its flour is naturally gluten-free.

It's a light-cream colored flour with a mildly earthy-nutty sweet taste. Its notably higher protein content compared to many gluten-free flours makes it valuable; it's generally used in baked goods blended with other gluten-free flours.

Nutritional Values of Quinoa Flour

Quinoa flour, with about 365 kcal of energy per 100 grams, contains mostly carbohydrate and, compared to many gluten-free flours, good protein and fiber; it's naturally gluten-free and a source of iron-magnesium. Values are approximate.

How Should Quinoa Flour Be Used?

Quinoa flour, as a gluten-free and relatively protein-rich flour, adds variety to a balanced diet; it's a valuable option for those who don't consume gluten. Like other flours, it's used in moderation.

This information is general; quinoa flour is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Quinoa Flour?

Good quinoa flour is dry, lump-free, light-cream colored and doesn't smell stale-rancid. Moistened, clumped or rancid flours are not preferred; those who eat gluten-free should choose a gluten-free labeled product.

• The flour should be dry and lump-free
• It should not smell stale-rancid
• A gluten-free labeled product may be preferred

How to Store Quinoa Flour?

Quinoa flour is stored in a sealed container, in a cool, dry and dark place; since it contains oil, it can turn rancid over time, so the refrigerator or freezer may be preferred for long storage.

Using Quinoa Flour in the Kitchen

Quinoa flour is used most in gluten-free cakes, cookies, crepes, pancakes and bread blends; it's also blended with other flours to boost protein. Due to its distinct taste, using it for only part of the total flour usually gives a more balanced result.

Why Is Quinoa Flour Blended?

Because of its distinct earthy taste and gluten-free structure, baked goods that are more balanced in both taste and texture are obtained when it's blended with other gluten-free flours instead of used alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is quinoa flour gluten-free?

Yes; since quinoa is not a cereal grain, its flour is naturally gluten-free. Those sensitive to cross-contamination should choose a gluten-free labeled product.

Why is quinoa flour high in protein?

The quinoa seed has higher protein than many grains; this trait carries over to the flour too, making it a protein-rich option among gluten-free flours.

What does quinoa flour taste like?

It has a mildly earthy and nutty, distinct taste; this character is noticeable in baked goods, which is why it's often used blended.