Kañiwa (Chenopodium pallidicaule), Canihua

Main Facts about Kañiwa

A close relative to quinoa that also grows in the highlands of Peru. This crop was indispensable in the Incas’ diet because of its ability to grow in tough conditions. Kañiwa is smaller in size than quinoa and reddish-brown in color. Technically, it is a seed that can be eaten like grain.

Using Kañiwa

Unlike quinoa Kañiwa doesn’t contain saponin (you don’t need to rinse it thoroughly before cooking); it has more protein, iron, magnesium, and calcium than quinoa. Kañiwa is gluten-free and an excellent source of antioxidants. Kañiwa carries the same B vitamins and minerals as whole-grain wheat. Being a plant food, it completely lacks in saturated fat and is cholesterol-free.

Kañiwa is a remedy for: Constipation

Cooking with Kañiwa

It is cooked similarly to quinoa (1 cup of Kañiwa to 2 cups of water; simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until the seed is soft and the liquid has been absorbed) and it also tastes better if toasted before cooking. The grain does not need to be rinsed prior to cooking.

Juniper

Kava-kava