Tofu Quinoa Fried Rice

by Katie Chin, Tastemaker in Residence

Although this Tofu Quinoa Fried Rice recipe isn’t really fried “rice” it is prepared just like authentic Chinese fried rice but instead of rice, I’m using quinoa (pronounced keen-wah). If you didn’t already know, quinoa is truly a superfood. Not only is it low in calories it is a complete protein, meaning it contains all 9 essential amino acids. It’s also rich in lysine, iron, magnesium, vitamin E, potassium, and fiber. Who knew? Although it’s actually a seed it’s prepared like a whole grain and has a slightly nutty taste. Quinoa can be quite bland so it’s not the most exciting thing to serve on its own but is simply delicious when it’s paired with the Chinese seasonings in this dish. In this meatless version, I’m using tofu but you could add chopped chicken, beef or shrimp to this dish if you wish. For a vegan version, omit the eggs and for a gluten-free version,  use non-gluten soy sauce or Bragg’s amino acids.

Ingredients
1 cup uncooked quinoa
2 cups water
1 Tbsp Canola or Vegetable oil
2 eggs, slightly beaten
3 Tbsp vegetable oil, divided
½ cup sliced white button mushrooms
1 cup bean sprouts
1/4 cup thawed frozen peas
1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
½ tsp salt
dash white pepper
1-2 Tbsp soy sauce
1 cup diced firm tofu (patted dry)
2 green onions, chopped

Instructions

1. Bring quinoa and water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer until tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed 15 to 20 minutes. Fluff with a fork. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
2. Heat wok or skillet until 1 or 2 drops of water bubble and skitter when sprinkled in wok. Add 1 tablespoon oil and rotate to coat. Add 1 tablespoon oil. Add eggs and cook until scrambled. Remove eggs from pan.
3. Add 1 tablespoon oil to pan. Add bean sprouts, mushrooms, peas, red pepper, salt and white pepper. Stir-fry for 1 minute. Add the additional 2 tablespoons oil and add the quinoa, soy sauce, and tofu cubes and toss until blended. Add the eggs and green onions and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Serve immediately.