White and red quinoa are both perfect proteins
Quinoa is often considered a grain, when it is actually more closely related to greens or beets. It comes in three basic colors; white, red, and black. While the main difference between all three is simply their color, each does have a subtly different taste.
Types
White quinoa is often considered "regular" quinoa, as it is the most commercially available. When cooked, it becomes a light golden color. Dark red quinoa is called Inca Red, and cooks to a medium brown.
Process
When the leaves of the quinoa plant fall off, the seeds are pulled from the stalk. Both red and white quinoa have a coating of saponin, which is very bitter, and must be rinsed carefully before cooking, according to Salt Spring Seeds.
Nutrition
Both white and red quinoa are known as complete proteins, meaning they contain all nine of the essential amino acids. They are both easy to digest, and contain high amounts of manganese, magnesium, iron, and vitamin B2.
Taste
The difference in taste between red and white quinoa is subtle. White quinoa has a lighter, more delicate flavor, while red quinoa is a bit earthier.
Expert Insight
According to Karen Railey of Health & Beyond, there are more than 120 species of quinoa, but white and Inca Red are two of only three that are mainly cultivated.
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