Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf

Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf Recipe - Vegan Food from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf is a delicious and nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of quinoa with the crispness of celery. This recipe is perfect for a light and healthy meal that is easy to prepare.

History

The origins of this recipe are not clear, but it is believed to have been inspired by traditional pilaf dishes from the Middle East. The addition of celery adds a unique twist to the classic quinoa pilaf, giving it a fresh and crunchy texture.

Ingredients

1 cup uncooked quinoa
2 cups water
2 cups diced celery
1 cup diced onion
5 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground fenugreek
1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
3 tbsp butter or butter substitute
0.5 a lemon
salt to taste

How to prepare

Place two tablespoons of olive oil in a two-quart saucepan and heat it.
Sauté the diced onion for two minutes.
Add three more tablespoons of olive oil, ground pepper, and salt to taste. Continue sautéing until the celery is tender.
Set aside three quarters (0.75) of the sautéed mixture and leave the remainder in the saucepan.
Pour water over the onions and celery in the saucepan. Add butter or butter substitute, fenugreek, and a touch of salt. Bring the water to a boil.
Reduce the heat to a simmer and add the quinoa. Simmer for 10 to 12 minutes or until most of the water is absorbed and the quinoa is al dente.
Remove the saucepan from heat and drain any remaining water.
Add the sautéed mixture that was set aside to the quinoa. Squeeze the lemon over the mixture and mix everything evenly. Adjust the flavor with a little salt or pepper to taste.
Serve and, if desired, garnish with fresh parsley (flat or curly). Enjoy!

Variations

Add diced carrots or bell peppers for extra color and flavor.
Substitute the quinoa with brown rice or couscous for a different texture.

Notes

I feel like I must have been possessed by the ghost of some chef while I was making this, because I have never made a pilaf before nor do I even recall having read a pilaf recipe before but what I did is evidently pretty similar to a pilaf. What probably happened is that I read a recipe or description of how to cook it in the past and I have forgotten, of course, but it's still pretty spooky.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to rinse the quinoa before cooking to remove any bitterness.

- Be careful not to overcook the quinoa, as it can become mushy.

- Feel free to add other vegetables or herbs to customize the dish to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf can be served as a side dish or as a main course. It pairs well with grilled chicken or fish.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for this recipe include sautéing the vegetables and simmering the quinoa until it is cooked through.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use vegetable broth instead of water for added flavor.

- Substitute the butter with coconut oil or ghee for a dairy-free option.

Make Ahead Tips

Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf in a large bowl and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

This dish pairs well with a crisp white wine or a light beer. It also goes well with a side salad or steamed vegetables.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium from the celery.

Alergens

This recipe is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with gluten or lactose intolerances.

Summary

Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf is a well-balanced dish that provides a good source of carbohydrates, healthy fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a meal.

Summary

Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to prepare. With a perfect balance of flavors and textures, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I can't forget the first time I saw this recipe for Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf. It was a chilly autumn day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her cozy farmhouse. Margaret was known for her delicious and unique recipes, and I always looked forward to trying something new whenever I visited her.

On that particular day, Margaret greeted me with a warm hug and a big smile. "I have a special recipe to share with you today," she said, her eyes twinkling with excitement. "It's a Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf that I learned from a friend of mine in Vermont. It's hearty, healthy, and packed with flavor."

I was intrigued by the sound of the dish and eager to learn how to make it. Margaret led me to her rustic kitchen, where she had all the ingredients laid out on the counter. She began to walk me through the recipe, explaining each step with care and precision.

As we chopped celery, toasted quinoa, and sautéed onions, Margaret shared stories of her time in Vermont and the friends she had made there. She spoke fondly of the woman who had taught her this recipe, a kind and generous soul who had a passion for cooking and sharing her creations with others.

As the aromas of garlic, herbs, and spices filled the air, I felt a sense of warmth and comfort wash over me. Cooking with Margaret was always a joy, and I cherished the moments we spent together in her kitchen, bonding over our shared love of food and friendship.

After the pilaf had simmered to perfection and the flavors had melded together beautifully, Margaret and I sat down at her dining table to enjoy our creation. The dish was a symphony of colors and textures, with the quinoa perfectly cooked and the celery adding a delightful crunch.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back to that chilly autumn day in Margaret's farmhouse, surrounded by good company and even better food. The Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf was a true masterpiece, a testament to the power of simple ingredients and a shared love of cooking.

That day marked the beginning of my own journey with the recipe, as I took it home with me and made it for my family and friends. I added my own twist to the dish, experimenting with different herbs and spices, and making it my own.

Over the years, the Yankee Celery Quinoa Pilaf became a staple in my own recipe collection, a dish that I would often make for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time I cooked it, I would think back to that day in Margaret's farmhouse, and the memories we had created together in her kitchen.

Now, as I pass on the recipe to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will find as much joy and comfort in making it as I have. Remember to savor each bite, and to cherish the moments spent in the kitchen with loved ones, for those are the memories that truly last a lifetime.

With love and warmth,

Your Grandma