Air-Fryer Puffed Quinoa: A Quick, Healthy Treat

Puffed quinoa is a versatile, tasty, and healthy snack that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is a great gluten-free, whole-grain option for people with celiac disease and a good source of protein for vegetarians and vegans. In this article, we will discuss how to make puffed quinoa in an air fryer, a simple and quick method to create a crunchy treat that can be enjoyed as a snack or used in baking.

Pre-cooking quinoa

To make puffed quinoa in an air fryer, you will first need to pre-cook the quinoa. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Before you start cooking the quinoa, it is important to rinse the quinoa thoroughly. This removes the natural pest-fighting coating called saponin, which can give the quinoa a bitter taste and irritate your stomach. Place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse it under running water for 1-2 minutes or until the water runs clear.

Once rinsed, combine the quinoa with water in a medium-sized pot. The ratio should be two parts liquid to one part quinoa. Bring the pot to a boil, cover it, and then reduce the heat to low. Allow the quinoa to simmer for 15 minutes.

After 15 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and let it sit covered for about 10 minutes. Then, remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork.

Your quinoa is now pre-cooked and ready to be puffed in the air fryer!

Air fryer settings

To make puffed quinoa in an air fryer, you will first need to cook the quinoa. Combine the dry quinoa with water in a medium-sized pot. Bring the water to a boil, then cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Allow the quinoa to simmer for 15 minutes, then remove the pot from the heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes. Finally, remove the lid and fluff the quinoa with a fork.

Once you have cooked the quinoa, it's time to preheat your air fryer. The ideal temperature for cooking crispy quinoa in an air fryer is 350ºF.

Place an air fryer-friendly parchment paper liner inside the air fryer basket and pour the quinoa on top, spreading it out in an even layer. Work in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding the air fryer.

Bake the quinoa for 13 to 15 minutes, shaking the air fryer basket halfway through the cooking time, until it is crispy and golden.

If you are using an air fryer with multiple cooking functions, select the "Bake" function for this recipe.

It is important to note that not all air fryers are suitable for puffing quinoa due to its small size. Quinoa seeds may obstruct the air fryer's filter, so it is recommended to use an air fryer with a non-stick coating to prevent sticking and for easier cleanup.

Oil and seasoning

When preparing puffed quinoa in an air fryer, it is important to note that the use of oil may vary depending on the specific method and recipe you choose to follow. While some recipes call for oiling the air fryer basket or tray, others suggest avoiding oil altogether to ensure the quinoa pops properly.

If you decide to use oil, it is recommended to use a light coating of cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil, avocado oil, or coconut oil. This can help prevent the quinoa from sticking to the surface and make cleanup easier.

For seasoning, it is best to add your desired spices, herbs, or flavourings after cooking the quinoa. This is because the high heat of the air fryer can scorch certain seasonings, making them unpalatable. Here are some seasoning ideas:

• Spicy: Smoked paprika, cayenne, or Aleppo pepper
• Italian flavour: Italian seasoning, fresh oregano, and nutritional yeast
• Gingerbread: Cinnamon, coconut sugar, and allspice
• Chili pepper: Chili powder, cumin, and cayenne
• Sweet: Cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup

Simply toss the cooked puffed quinoa with your chosen seasonings, and you're done!

Avoiding air fryer issues

Air fryers are a great way to make healthier fried foods, but there are some common issues you may encounter when using one. Here are some tips to avoid those issues and get the most out of your air fryer:

Invest in the Right Size and Style

The first step to avoiding issues is to choose the right air fryer for your needs. Consider the types of recipes you'll be making and the number of people you'll typically be cooking for. If you have a large family or plan to meal prep, opt for a large or extra-large model. Also, decide if a basket or oven-style air fryer better suits your needs. Basket air fryers are more compact and heat up faster, while oven-style air fryers offer more capacity and often come with additional functions.

Don't Skip the Preheat

Always preheat your air fryer before adding food. This is an important step to ensure your food starts cooking immediately and helps prevent soggy results. Give your air fryer enough time to heat up before adding your ingredients.

Avoid Overfilling

Overfilling the basket or tray can lead to sogginess, uneven cooking, or longer cooking times. Cook your food in batches if needed to allow for proper airflow and space between the pieces.

Flip or Shake Midway

Most air fryer recipes require flipping or shaking the ingredients halfway through the cooking time. Don't just set and forget; actively monitor your food to ensure even cooking and the best results.

Avoid Wet or Fatty Foods

Avoid cooking foods with high fat content, such as bacon or marbled-meat burgers, as they can cause splattering, smoking, and strong smells. Also, pat wet or marinated foods dry with paper towels before placing them in the air fryer to reduce moisture and achieve crispier results.

Clean Thoroughly

Regular and thorough cleaning of your air fryer is essential for optimal performance and safety. Unplug the appliance, remove all parts, and wash them with warm soapy water or in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe. Wipe down the interior and exterior with a damp cloth, and be sure to check and clean the heating element as well.

Use Parchment Paper

When making puffed quinoa in your air fryer, use a parchment paper liner. This will make cleanup easier and help prevent the quinoa from sticking to the air fryer surface.

Storing puffed quinoa

If you want to store it for longer, you can keep it in the refrigerator, where it will last for about a week.

It is important to ensure that the quinoa is completely dry and cool before storing it to maintain its crispness and crunch.

Additionally, if you are storing the puffed quinoa in an airtight container on the kitchen counter, it can be kept for about a week.

Frequently asked questions