The Spaniards who arrived in America were surprised to recognize the peruvian quinoa as one of the most important foods for the natives of the time.
Native to South America, the peruvian quinoa was domesticated by the people who inhabited the Andes, mainly in Peru and Bolivia, for thousands of years. For this reason, it is common to refer to this cereal as “an ancient Andean grain”, which has been part of the diet since pre-Columbian times.
Because this plant-based food contains all the essential amino acids, provides fiber, vitamins and other important nutrients3, it is considered by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations, FAO, as one of the world’s greatest future foods
Then, up to two types of this ancient seed were identified —the white and the “red”—, and they left the record of this in several of their chronicles that are now part of Peru history.
More than five hundred years later, quinoa continues to surprise, this time the whole world, for its high nutritional value and also for its genetic diversity, which reaches up to 25 types of this grass.
This has allowed it to adapt to different areas and climates, which has led to different regions of the country being able to take advantage of its benefits.
There are several varieties on the market. But, without a doubt, royal quinoa and mixed or multicolored quinoa are the most nutritious and marketed.
The Royal Quinoa
It is the type of quinoa whose grain color is lighter and its size is larger than that of the others. The plant is very resistant to extreme cold and low water use, so there are few risks in its production. Nutritionally, it has a high content of proteins and essential amino acids that our body cannot produce, and it has an ideal balance between the carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins it contains, among which phosphorus, iron and calcium stand out. NASA has chosen it as the food of its astronauts.
Mixed or Multicolored Quinoa (red and black)
Red and black quinoa were dying in the market, but, due to recent scientific research, their nutritional value has been enhanced and other benefits have been discovered that are not contained in the most widely produced types of quinoa, which has increased their demand.
Among them, its high fiber content stands out, which makes it recommended to combat constipation and diabetes, in addition to its properties as a stress regulator. Its unconventional and striking color can add aesthetic value to every dish.