Quinoa Soup Recipe To Warm Your Heart With Perfect Ingredients

Inviting an irresistible fusion of health and taste into your culinary repertoire, our Quinoa Soup Recipe elevates everyday dining to a nourishing experience.

As a whole grain rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, Quinoa lays the foundation for this vibrant, hearty soup. 

Skillfully interweaving a symphony of fresh, handpicked ingredients.

It serves as a feast for both the palate and the eyes. This timeless recipe guarantees a warm embrace on cool days, and a nourishing reprieve from the summer heat

This quinoa soup introduces an irresistible blend of textures and flavors to the table, packed with colorful vegetables.

This recipe isn’t just a humble ode to wholesome comfort food—it’s a narrative of wellness and satisfaction that’s deeply woven into every ladle. 

So, let’s embark on this culinary adventure, transforming simple, unassuming ingredients into an inspiring masterpiece.

What Is Quinoa Soup?

Quinoa Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that integrates the superfood quinoa with other flavorful ingredients.

A staple in many South American cuisines, Quinoa serves as the star of this soup. It offers a unique, slightly nutty flavor and a texture that is both soft and slightly crunchy.

The basic recipe generally involves simmering Quinoa in a well-seasoned broth, often enhanced with onions, garlic, and aromatic herbs. 

The beauty of quinoa soup lies in its versatility; you can augment it with a medley of vegetables like carrots, celery, bell peppers, or even proteins like chicken or tofu.

Every spoonful delivers a wonderful mix of textures and flavors, not to mention a host of health benefits. Quinoa is rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals, making the soup nutritious.

Whether served as a comforting winter warmer or a light summer meal, 

Quinoa Soup is a delicious and wholesome option that appeals to various dietary preferences.

History Of Quinoa Soup

Quinoa soup’s history begins with the ancient Incan civilization, which hailed Quinoa as the “mother of all grains.” For centuries, this crop, native to the Andean regions of Peru, Bolivia, and Ecuador, was a food staple known for its robust nutritional profile. 

Quinoa was often prepared in a soup with local produce and herbs. Spanish colonizers, however, nearly eradicated Quinoa due to its spiritual significance to indigenous populations. 

Until the late 20th century, Quinoa resurfaced globally as a “superfood,” leading to the resurrection of traditional dishes like Quinoa Soup.

Now it is enjoyed worldwide for its heartiness, health benefits, and connection to ancient culinary traditions.

Interesting Fact About Quinoa Soup 

• Quinoa, the prime ingredient in Quinoa Soup, was once called the “Gold of the Incas.” Revered for its ability to energize and nourish, it was a staple in the Incan diet.

• Unlike many grains, Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it provides all nine essential amino acids our bodies can’t produce.
• It’s rare for plant food to have this quality, making Quinoa Soup a fantastic source of plant-based protein.

• Quinoa Soup is a living testament to global culinary fusion. Its original version from the Andes has mingled with influences from various cuisines.
• Today, you can find variants with Italian, Mediterranean, and Asian inspirations.

• In many Andean cultures, Quinoa Soup is traditionally consumed at breakfast, providing a hearty, nutrient-rich start to the day.
• It’s also a common dish during community festivals and family gatherings.

• The soup’s adaptable nature makes it a canvas for seasonal ingredients. It might feature fresh asparagus in spring, while in autumn, it could showcase hearty squash.

• The broth used in Quinoa Soup can drastically change its flavor profile. A vegetable broth yields a light, refreshing soup, while a bone broth can give it a rich, deep flavor.

• Quinoa is often called a superfood, but its benefits extend beyond nutrition. It’s an environmentally friendly crop, requiring less water than common cereals, and can grow in poor soils.

What Makes The Quinoa Soup Special?

Quinoa soup’s specialness lies in its union of simplicity, versatility, and nourishment. At its core, it involves cooking Quinoa in a rich broth. This straightforward process allows each ingredient’s flavors to shine

Its versatility comes from the ability to customize it to your liking. You can add any vegetables, spices, or proteins you prefer, allowing it to cater to various dietary needs or preferences, such as vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free. 

However, what truly sets quinoa soup apart is its nourishment. Quinoa, dubbed as a ‘superfood,’ is packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals.

This makes the soup not just a delicious meal but a highly nutritious one that promotes overall health. 

Its combination of taste, health benefits, and potential for customization makes quinoa soup a unique culinary treasure.

Ingredients List

Ingredient	Quantity
Boneless, skinless chicken breast	1
Bay leaf	1
Fresh thyme sprigs	2
Garlic, chopped	4 cloves
Salt (omit if using store-bought stock)	1 tsp
Unsalted butter	2 Tbsp
Large yellow onion, diced	1/2
Fresh spinach leaves	1/2 lb (or a 6-oz bag)
Flat-leaf parsley, chopped (stems discarded)	3 sprigs
Loosely packed cilantro leaves	1/4 cup
Mint leaves, chopped	3 sprigs
Jalapeño chile, diced (stem, seeds, and ribs removed)	1 large (ripe red for color)
Quinoa	3/4 cup
Celery, diced	2 stalks
Scallions, finely diced (white and green parts)	3

Ingredient Tips 

• Chicken breast: You could use bone-in chicken for a more flavorful soup. The bones add depth to the broth; you can easily remove them before serving.

• Quinoa: Rinse Quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove its natural saponin coating, which can make it taste bitter or soapy.

• Herbs And Spices: Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the best flavor. If you only have dried herbs, remember the ratio: 1 teaspoon equals 1 tablespoon of fresh.

• Butter and Onion: Saute the onion in butter until it’s translucent to build a flavor base for the soup. This process called sweating, helps release the onion’s sweetness.

• Fresh Vegetables: Make sure your vegetables are fresh and crisp. Wilted greens or overripe vegetables can make the soup taste off.

• Jalapeño: Control the spiciness of your soup by adjusting the amount of jalapeño. Remember, the seeds and ribs contain most of the heat.

• Celery And Scallions: Add these towards the end of the cooking process to maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.

• Salt: If you’re using store-bought chicken stock, it’s likely already seasoned, so be cautious with additional salt. Always taste as you go.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Absolutely! Quinoa soup is a versatile dish that can easily be modified to meet various dietary needs:

• Keto 

Quinoa isn’t keto-friendly due to its high carb content. You could replace it with lower-carb options like cauliflower rice or chopped zucchini. You could also add more high-fat ingredients, like avocados or a swirl of cream, to align with the ketogenic diet’s macro requirements.

• Paleo

Similar to keto, Quinoa isn’t typically included in a paleo diet. You could use riced cauliflower or sweet potatoes instead. Also, replace the regular butter with ghee or coconut oil.

• Gluten-Free

Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making it an excellent option for a gluten-free diet. Ensure that your chicken stock is gluten-free, as some store-bought versions might contain gluten.

• Whole30

Quinoa is also not Whole30-compliant due to being a pseudo-cereal. You could replace it with more veggies or add a protein like chopped chicken or shrimp.
Use ghee instead of regular butter, and make sure your chicken stock is Whole30-approved.

• Vegetarian/Vegan

Replace the chicken breast with tofu or chickpeas for protein, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. For a vegan version, use olive oil or a vegan butter substitute.

Recipe Directions

• In a Dutch oven, combine stock, chicken, bay leaf, thyme, garlic, and salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 15 minutes. Strain the stock and set aside.
• In the same pot, cook onion and garlic in butter for 5 minutes. Add spinach, parsley, cilantro, mint, and jalapeño, cook for another 5 minutes.
• Pour in the reserved strained stock, bring to a boil, then simmer for 3 minutes.
• Add Quinoa, celery, and scallions, cover, and simmer for 35 minutes.
• Shred the cooled chicken using two forks.
• After simmering, add shredded chicken to the pot, adjust seasoning, and ladle the soup into bowls.
• Optionally, drizzle cilantro cream on top before serving.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings For The Recipe

Quinoa soup is incredibly versatile, and there are many ways to vary the recipe or add extra flavor with toppings. Here are some ideas:

Variations

• Vegetable Quinoa Soup: Skip the chicken and add more vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or even sweet potatoes for a hearty vegan version.

• Spicy Quinoa Soup: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or extra jalapeños to kick the soup.

• Quinoa and Bean Soup: Add a can of drained and rinsed black beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.

• Seafood Quinoa Soup: Swap out the chicken for shrimp or chunks of white fish. Add them in during the last few minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.

Add-Ons

• Grains: You can mix in other grains like farro or barley for a change in texture.

• Greens: Try different greens like kale, chard, or collard greens.

• Protein: Add tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian protein source. If you eat meat, try different types, such as turkey or even beef.

Toppings

• Cheese: Sprinkle crumbled feta or grated parmesan on each serving.

• Nuts: Add a crunch with toasted almonds, walnuts, or pumpkin seeds.

• Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill, basil, or extra mint would make a refreshing topping.

• Avocado: Slices of creamy avocado make a delicious and visually appealing topping.

Scaling Quinoa Soup Recipe

Scaling a recipe up or down is useful, especially when cooking for a larger group or making a smaller quantity. Here are some general guidelines:

Scaling Up

• Double the Ingredients: If you want to serve twice as many people, double the ingredients. This works for most recipes, including our quinoa soup.

• Adjust Cooking Times: More ingredients can take longer, especially when boiling or baking. Keep a close eye on the cooking process when scaling up.

• Use Appropriate Equipment: Make sure your pot or pan is large enough to accommodate the larger ingredients. Crowding can lead to uneven cooking.

Scaling Down

• Halve the Ingredients: If you want to make a smaller quantity, halve all the ingredients. This works well for most soup recipes.

• Keep Cooking Times the Same: Even though you’re cooking less, many cooking times (especially simmering and boiling) will remain the same.

• Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Even when you scale a recipe down, you might want to adjust the seasoning, particularly salt, and spices, according to your taste.

What Is Used For Garnishing?

Garnishing is an important final step in presenting your Quinoa Soup. It can add a pop of color, flavor, and texture. Here are a few suggestions for garnishing your soup:

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro, parsley, or mint on top of the soup just before serving. It can enhance the flavor and give it a vibrant color contrast.

• Sliced Scallions: Both the green and white parts can be used as a garnish. They give a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch.

• Citrus Zest Or Wedges: Some lemon or lime zest can brighten the soup. Alternatively, serve with a wedge for guests to squeeze into their soup as desired.

• Seeds: Toasted pumpkin or sesame seeds could add a lovely crunch and nutty flavor.

• Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or crumbled feta can give the soup a salty tang.

• Drizzle Of Oil: A drizzle of good quality extra virgin olive or flavored oil (like chili or garlic) can add a lovely gloss and enhance the overall flavor.

• Cream Or Yogurt: A swirl of cream, coconut milk, or a dollop of yogurt can give a creamy contrast to the hearty soup.

• Avocado Slices: These can provide a creamy texture and the visual appeal of green color.

Can I Make Quinoa Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Quinoa Soup can easily be adapted to be made in a slow cooker or an Instant Pot. Here are the general steps for each:

Slow Cooker

• Add all the ingredients except the Quinoa and spinach to the slow cooker. This includes the chicken, stock, herbs, onion, garlic, celery, and jalapeño.

• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

• About 30 minutes before serving, remove the chicken and shred it. Return it to the slow cooker.

• Add the Quinoa and spinach to the slow cooker, cover, and cook on high for 30 minutes, until the Quinoa is cooked and the spinach is wilted.

• Check the seasoning, add more salt if needed, and serve hot.

Instant Pot

• Using the sauté function, cook the onions, garlic, celery, and jalapeño in the butter until softened.

• Add the chicken, herbs, and stock to the pot. Secure the lid and set the pressure release to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.

• Perform a quick release by moving the pressure release to the vent.

• Open the pot and remove the chicken to shred it.

• Add the Quinoa and spinach to the pot, secure the lid, and set the pressure release to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 1 minute, then allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes before moving the pressure release to the vent.

• Return the shredded chicken to the pot, check the seasoning, and serve hot.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Depending on your preference and available time, you can use either store-bought broth or homemade.

Store-Bought Broth

• This is a great option for convenience. It’s readily available and saves a lot of time. When choosing a store-bought broth, look for low-sodium versions to control the amount of salt in your soup. 
• Also, check the ingredient list to avoid broths with artificial additives or preservatives.

Homemade Broth

• Making your own broth gives you control over the ingredients and allows you to adjust the flavors to your liking. You can use leftover bones and vegetable scraps, making it a cost-effective and sustainable option. 

• Homemade broth typically has a fresher, deeper flavor compared to store-bought versions. However, it takes more time to prepare.

Can I Use Different Types Of Meat/Fish/Pasta/Vegetables For The Quinoa Soup?

Yes, absolutely. Quinoa soup is versatile and can be customized according to your preferences. Here are some possibilities:

• Meat

While the recipe calls for chicken, you can use other types of meat. Turkey can be a direct substitute for chicken. Beef, pork, or lamb could be used too, but they have stronger flavors that might change the taste profile of the soup. If using red meat, consider beef or vegetables instead of chicken stock.

• Fish

White fish like cod, haddock, or tilapia could work well. Shellfish like shrimp or scallops could also be nice additions. Just remember that fish and shellfish cook faster than chicken, so add them later in the cooking process to avoid overcooking.

• Pasta

You can add pasta to your quinoa soup if you like. Small shapes like orzo, ditalini, or even tiny shells work best. Cook the pasta separately and add it at the end to prevent it from getting too soft.

• Vegetables

Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what you have or what’s in season. Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes could add sweetness. Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn could provide extra color and texture.

Dark, leafy greens like kale or chard could be used instead of spinach. Just be mindful of the different cooking times for other vegetables.

Success Tips – Tips And Tricks For Making The Quinoa Soup

Cooking a successful Quinoa Soup involves some preparation, the right cooking techniques, and knowledge of your ingredients. Here are some tips and tricks:

Prepping Time Tips

• Chop In Advance: Most of the work in this recipe involves chopping ingredients. Save time by doing this ahead of your cooking time.

• Measure Your Ingredients: Having all your ingredients measured and ready to go (mise en place) can make the cooking process smoother and faster.

• Rinse Your Quinoa: Always rinse it under cold water to remove its natural coating, called saponin, which can make it taste bitter or soapy.

Cooking Tips

• Don’t Rush The Simmering: Simmering the soup for the right amount of time helps to develop flavors and ensure that the Quinoa is cooked properly.

• Adjust The Heat: Be mindful of your heat levels. If the soup is boiling too vigorously, it can become reduced too quickly and turn out too thick. If it’s not boiling enough, it could turn out too thin.

• Shred The Chicken Properly: When shredding the chicken, ensure it’s still warm, as it’s easier than when it’s cooled.

Nutritional Values

Quinoa Soup is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s packed with high-quality protein from chicken and Quinoa, providing all nine essential amino acids. Rich in dietary fiber, it supports digestion. 

The soup boasts many vitamins and minerals from fresh herbs and veggies, including vitamins A, C, K, Iron, and Potassium.

Moreover, Quinoa’s low glycemic index makes it a good choice for blood sugar control. This soup is truly a well-rounded, nutritious meal in a bowl.

What Are The Total Calories In Soup?

• Chicken breast (3 oz, cooked): 135 calories
• Homemade chicken stock (2 cups): 86 calories
• Quinoa (3/4 cup, cooked): 159 calories
• Spinach (1/2 lb): 104 calories
• Onion, garlic, celery, scallions, herbs, and jalapeño: approximately 100 calories
• Butter (2 Tbsp): 204 calories

Adding these up, we have approximately 788 calories for the entire soup pot. If the soup serves four, that’s about 197 calories per serving.

Dietary Restrictions Of Quinoa Soup

Quinoa soup can fit into many dietary plans. Still, depending on the specific recipe and ingredients, it may only suit some. Here are some common nutritional restrictions to consider:

• Gluten-Free: Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this soup a good choice for those with celiac disease or non-celiac gluten sensitivity. However, ensure all other ingredients (like store-bought chicken stock) are gluten-free.

• Dairy-Free: If the recipe uses butter, it would not be suitable for those avoiding dairy. However, you can easily substitute it with a dairy-free alternative like olive oil.

• Vegetarian/Vegan: The traditional quinoa soup recipe includes chicken and chicken stock, which are unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans. However, these can be substituted with vegetable stock and additional veggies or plant-based proteins.

• Low Sodium: The sodium content in the soup could be high depending on the amount of salt added and the sodium content in the chicken stock. Opt for low-sodium stock and control the amount of added salt for a lower-sodium version.

• Keto/Low-Carb: Quinoa is a grain, and it’s high in carbs, making this soup not suitable for a keto or low-carb diet.

• Paleo/Whole30: Quinoa is a pseudo-grain, and it’s prohibited on Paleo or Whole30 diets.

Health Benefits Of Quinoa Soup

Quinoa Soup is rich in nutrients and offers a host of health benefits due to its key ingredients:

• High In Protein: Quinoa is one of the few plant foods that contain all nine essential amino acids. This soup is a great source of high-quality protein combined with the chicken.

• Rich In Fiber: Quinoa and vegetables like spinach, celery, and onions provide dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps in maintaining a healthy weight.

• Boosts Immunity: This soup can support a robust immune system with its array of vitamins and minerals from fresh herbs and vegetables. Garlic, in particular, contains compounds known to boost the disease-fighting response of white blood cells.
  
• Heart Healthy: Quinoa is high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease. The potassium in Quinoa may also help manage blood pressure.

• Rich In Antioxidants: Spinach and other vegetables in the soup are loaded with antioxidants which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

• Beneficial For Blood Sugar Control: Quinoa has a low glycemic index, which is useful for blood sugar control, making it a great option for individuals with diabetes.

Nutrition Table 

How Can I Make Quinoa Soup Lower In Sodium? 

Reducing sodium in Quinoa Soup can be achieved with a few strategic adjustments:

• Low-Sodium Broth: Use a low-sodium or unsalted store-bought broth, or make your own without added salt. This is a significant way to cut down on the overall sodium content.

• Limit Added Salt: Be mindful of how much salt you add during cooking. You can always add more to the table if necessary, but you can’t remove it once it’s in there.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh ingredients like vegetables and herbs typically contain less sodium than their canned or processed counterparts. Plus, they add natural flavors that can help compensate for the reduced salt.

• Increase Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor with herbs and spices, such as garlic, thyme, parsley, mint, and jalapeño. They add depth and complexity without contributing significant sodium.

• Lemon Juice or Vinegar: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of vinegar can perk up the flavors in a soup, reducing the need for extra salt.

How Can I Make Quinoa Soup Lower In Sugar?

Quinoa soup is typically low in sugar, as the main ingredients (Quinoa, chicken, and vegetables) don’t naturally contain much sugar. However, here are some general tips to keep the sugar content low:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh vegetables instead of canned can help ensure no added sugars are included in your recipe. Some canned or processed foods contain hidden sugars, so using fresh ingredients can help avoid this.

• Check Your Broth: Store-bought broths can sometimes contain added sugars. Look for brands that don’t add sugar, or consider making your own at home.

• Mind Your Toppings: If you’re adding toppings or garnishes to your soup, be sure they are low in sugar. Even some types of store-bought croutons or bread can contain added sugars.

• Use Whole Grains: Whole grains like Quinoa are a good choice as they contain complex carbohydrates that don’t spike blood sugar levels as much as simple carbs.

How To Serve The Quinoa Soup In The Best Way?

Serving Quinoa Soup elegantly and effectively can elevate the entire dining experience. Here are a few tips:

• Bowl Choice
  Opt for wide, shallow soup bowls to showcase the colorful ingredients of the soup. Pre-warm the bowls in the oven or run them under hot water to keep the soup hot for longer.

• Garnish
  Before serving, garnish the soup with freshly chopped herbs, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for added depth of flavor and visual appeal.

• Side Dish
  Quinoa Soup is a meal in itself, but you can serve it with a side of crusty whole-grain bread, a simple green salad, or a dish of marinated olives to create a more robust meal.

• Serving Utensil 
  Use a ladle for serving. This allows for an easy and even serving of broth and chunks, ensuring everyone gets a balanced portion.

• Personalize
  If dietary restrictions allow, you could provide small bowls of grated cheese, croutons, or chili flakes on the table. This will enable guests to personalize their soup to their liking.

Perfect Side Dishes To Complement Quinoa Soup Recipe

Quinoa soup is hearty and flavorful. However, certain side dishes can complement their taste and texture, making your meal a well-rounded dining experience. Here are a few options:

• Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of whole-grain or sourdough bread can be the perfect accompaniment to any soup, great for dipping and soaking up all the delicious flavors.

• Grilled Vegetables: A plate of grilled or roasted veggies can add a pleasant, smoky contrast to the rich flavors of the soup. Choose seasonal vegetables for the best taste and texture.

• Green Salad: A light, fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the warmth and richness of the soup. Try a simple mixed greens salad, or choose something with more character, like an arugula salad with lemon and parmesan.

• Quinoa Salad: For a thematic companion, a chilled quinoa salad with a mix of fresh vegetables, herbs, and a light dressing can be an excellent choice.

• Cheese Plate: A selection of cheeses, particularly those with a sharp flavor, can complement the soup wonderfully. Pair with a variety of crackers or sliced baguettes.

How Long Can We Store The Soup?

Quinoa soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you have leftovers you can’t consume within that time, you can freeze the soup for up to three months.

When freezing, it’s best to portion the soup into individual servings conveniently. 

This way, you can defrost and reheat only what you need. Store the soup in airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent freezer burn.

Can I Make Quinoa Soup In Advance?

You can make Quinoa Soup in advance. It’s a great recipe for meal prep.

The flavors tend to meld and become even more robust in the refrigerator after a day or two. Follow the recipe, allow the soup to cool, and store it in an airtight container.

When you’re ready to serve it, reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s hot all the way through.

If the soup seems too thick after storing, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

If you’re preparing it for a gathering or event, you can reheat it just before your guests arrive.

Quinoa continues to absorb liquid as it sits. You might need to add a bit of broth or water upon reheating if the soup has thickened more than you’d like.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

Leftover Quinoa Soup is incredibly versatile and can be repurposed in a variety of delicious ways:

• Add To A Stir-fry: Use the soup as a base for a quick and nutritious stir-fry. Just add some fresh vegetables and protein of your choice.

• Stuffed Peppers Or Tomatoes: Use the soup as a stuffing for peppers or tomatoes, then bake for a healthy and flavorful meal.

• Pasta Sauce: Thicken the soup with a little cream or puree it to make a sauce for pasta.

• Grain Bowls: Use the soup as a topping for grain bowls and other veggies and protein.

• Frittata: Add the soup to beaten eggs, pour into a baking dish, and bake until set for an amazing frittata.

• Freeze For Later: If you’re unsure what to do with the leftovers immediately, you can freeze them. Store in individual portion sizes for a quick and easy meal in the future.

Special Tools/Equipment Needed

• Stockpot or Dutch Oven: A 4-quart Dutch oven or a large stockpot is ideal for making the soup. The size ensures there’s enough room for all the ingredients.
• Cutting Board and Knife: A knife and cutting board are needed to chop ingredients like garlic, onion, spinach, parsley, cilantro, mint, jalapeno, celery, and scallions.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure the ingredients accurately, especially the Quinoa, butter, and salt.
• Large Measuring Cup or Bowl: This is used for setting aside the strained stock.
• Strainer: To strain the stock and remove the bay leaf, thyme, and garlic.
• Cooking Utensils: You’ll need a spatula or wooden spoon to stir the soup as it cooks.
• Two Forks: These are used for shredding the cooked chicken.
• Airtight Containers or Freezer Bags: If you plan to store the leftovers, you’ll need these for storage in the refrigerator or freezer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Does Quinoa Soup Taste Like?

Ah, the taste of Quinoa Soup is divine. You’ve got the slight nuttiness from the Quinoa, a savory layer from the chicken and broth, and a lively kick from the herbs and jalapeño. It’s hearty, refreshing, and perfectly balanced!

I’m Not A Fan Of Spicy Food. Can I Skip The Jalapeño?

My friend. The jalapeño is there for a little heat, but if that’s not your jam, you can skip it or substitute it with a milder pepper.

Can I Use Vegetable Broth Instead Of Chicken Broth?

Of course, you can! Using vegetable broth would make your soup vegetarian friendly, and the flavors will still be lovely.

Can I Make This Soup In A Pressure Cooker?

Yes, you totally can! Just ensure to adjust the cooking time according to your pressure cooker instructions.

My Quinoa Always Turns Mushy. How Do I Avoid That?

Great question! The key to fluffy Quinoa is to rinse it thoroughly before cooking and to be mindful of your water-to-quinoa ratio. Also, simmering at low heat can help avoid a mushy texture.