Corn-oa

Corn-oa is a delicious and unique twist on a Mexican-themed dinner, featuring the grain of choice: quinoa. This recipe embraces the authentic flavors of Mexican cuisine while adding a modern touch. The chipotle pepper is recommended for an extra kick, but it’s optional if you prefer a milder taste. Be prepared for leftovers, as you’ll likely want to make the Super-Quick Quinoa and Black Bean Sliders with the extra corn-oa.

YIELD: This recipe will yield 4 side servings

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups (470 ml) water
• 1/2 to 1 chipotle pepper in adobo (optional)
• 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
• 1/2 cup (80 g) minced onion
• 1/4 cup (38 g) minced green bell peppers
• 5 cherry tomatoes, cut into quarters
• 3 to 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup (164 g) frozen corn kernels, run under hot water to thaw
• 1 cup (173 g) dry quinoa
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Blend the chipotle pepper with the water in a blender. Set the chipotle-infused water aside.
2. In a medium-sized saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced onion, green bell peppers, and quartered cherry tomatoes. Cook and stir until softened, which should take around 3 to 4 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and thawed corn kernels, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Add the dry quinoa, fine sea salt, ground black pepper, and the previously blended chipotle-infused water to the saucepan. Give it a good stir and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, cover the saucepan and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the quinoa is fully cooked, and the liquid has been absorbed. You’ll know it’s ready when the quinoa’s tails have popped.
6. Once the corn-oa is done, fluff the quinoa with a fork, and it’s ready to be served.

TIPS:

• Adjust Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, use half a chipotle pepper or skip it altogether. For spice lovers, add a whole chipotle pepper or even more for an extra kick.
• Fluff Quinoa: After cooking, fluff the quinoa with a fork to separate the grains and ensure a light and fluffy texture.
• Use Fresh or Frozen Corn: While the recipe calls for frozen corn, you can also use fresh corn if it’s in season for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to get creative with additional veggies. Bell peppers, zucchini, or diced carrots can add extra color and nutrients to the dish.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the Corn-oa ahead of time and refrigerate it for quick and convenient meals during the week. It reheats well, making it a great option for meal prep.
• Customize Seasonings: Tailor the seasonings to your taste. You can experiment with different herbs and spices like cilantro, cumin, or paprika for unique flavor variations.
• Serve with Toppings: Garnish the Corn-oa with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness and flavor.
• Pair with Protein: While this recipe is perfect as a side dish, you can also serve it as a main course by adding protein sources like grilled tofu, black beans, or diced grilled chicken.
• Cook Quinoa with Broth: For an extra boost of flavor, cook the quinoa in vegetable broth instead of water.
• Double the Recipe: If you have a large group or want to have leftovers for multiple meals, consider doubling the recipe to ensure everyone gets their fill of this delicious Corn-oa!

Enjoy this flavorful Corn-oa as a delightful side dish for your next Mexican-themed dinner! With the unique taste of quinoa and the option to add a chipotle pepper for some extra spice, this dish is sure to impress. Whether you serve it alongside seitan cutlets or pair it with Super-Quick Quinoa and Black Bean Sliders, you’ll love the blend of authentic Mexican flavors and modern twists. Plus, with leftovers highly recommended, you can enjoy this delicious dish for days to come. So, give Corn-oa a try and savor the goodness of quinoa in this delightful and easy-to-make recipe.