Organic Quinoa Grain 250g/500g/1000g

Quinoa is a seed from the Andes of South America — botanically a flowering plant rather than a grain, but used as one — with an exceptional nutritional profile that stands apart from all true cereals. These certified organic quinoa grains from Just Natural Organic are the classic white (ivory) variety, the mildest and most versatile of the three quinoa colours. They cook in just 15 minutes to produce light, fluffy grains with a characteristic slightly firm centre and a subtle, nutty flavour.

Quinoa is one of the very few plant foods to contain all nine essential amino acids in significant amounts — making it a genuinely complete plant protein at 14g per 100g. It is also a good source of manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, folate, iron, and dietary fibre, and is naturally gluten-free.

Certified organic by the Soil Association. Plastic-free, home-compostable packaging. Available in 250g, 500g and 1000g.

Rinse thoroughly before cooking (to remove the bitter saponin coating). Cook 1:2 ratio for 15 minutes on low heat, then rest 5 minutes with the lid on. Use in salads, grain bowls, stuffed peppers, soups, as a rice substitute, or in breakfast porridge with milk and honey.

Recipe idea — Quinoa Tabbouleh: Cook 200g quinoa, spread on a tray and cool completely. Combine with 1 large bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped), 1 small bunch mint (finely chopped), 4 spring onions (finely sliced), 2 large tomatoes (diced, seeds removed), juice of 2 lemons, 4 tbsp olive oil, and seasoning. Toss well and refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving. A protein-rich, gluten-free take on the Middle Eastern classic that keeps well for 2 days.

Key nutrients: Complete plant protein (14g/100g — all 9 essential amino acids), manganese (>100% NRV), magnesium, phosphorus, folate, iron, zinc, and dietary fibre. Naturally gluten-free. Higher in protein and lower in carbohydrates than most grains.

Ingredients: Organic Quinoa.

FAQs

Is quinoa really a complete protein?
Yes — quinoa contains all nine essential amino acids in meaningful quantities, including lysine (which most grains lack) and methionine. This makes it one of the very few plant foods (alongside soy, hemp seeds, and amaranth) to qualify as a complete protein. 100g of cooked quinoa provides around 4g of protein — and as a dry grain, 14g per 100g.

Why do I need to rinse quinoa?
Quinoa has a natural outer coating of saponins — bitter, soap-like compounds that the plant produces to deter birds and insects. Most commercially sold quinoa is pre-rinsed but a second rinse under cold water for 30–60 seconds is always recommended for the best flavour.

Is quinoa gluten-free?
Yes — quinoa is naturally gluten-free and is one of the best grain substitutes for people with coeliac disease or gluten intolerance. Check the label for cross-contamination warnings if you have severe sensitivity.

How does quinoa compare to rice nutritionally?
Quinoa has roughly double the protein of white rice, more fibre, a higher mineral content (especially magnesium, iron, and zinc), and a lower glycaemic index. For a simple side dish substitute, quinoa is nutritionally superior in almost every measure.

What does "white" quinoa mean?
White (or ivory) quinoa is the mildest-flavoured and quickest-cooking variety. Red quinoa has a more pronounced nutty flavour and slightly crunchier texture. Black quinoa is the earthiest. All three have similar nutritional profiles; the differences are primarily in flavour and visual impact.