Hearty Quinoa Fried Rice

Honestly, who doesn't love fried rice? Our Thighs. Sometimes I can't resist, but I find that the empty carbs & loads of soy (gluten) just wasn't worth it. Guaranteed food hangover if you ask me.

But wait! There's a healthy alternative (isn't there always? ;) ). Packed with protein, quinoa fried rice is relatively lite & very satisfying. Unlike rice, the quinoa retains it's moisture when you reheat it. This means this recipe is great for meal planning. The batch will be huge, so saving the left-overs pre-portioned in zip-lock containers (frozen or refrigerated) is always a plus.



Ingredients
1 C quinoa
1 1/2 C low or no sodium chicken stock
1/4 small onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled & chopped
3 scallions, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 tsp fresh ginger minced
1 tablespoon E.V.O.O
Whites of 4 eggs, whisked
1/2 C frozen peas
1 1/2 tablespoons teriyaki sauce
2 1/2 Tbsp tamari, otherwise known as gluten free soy sauce
3/4 Tbsp toasted sesame oil



Tip: The type of teriyaki sauce is your choice. Try Whole Foods for a gluten free option. If you can handle a little gluten in your diet, any type will work.

1) Rinse quinoa well in a strainer. Cook as directed on the box, using the chicken stock instead of water. When it's done, throw it in a container that seals well, and pop it in the freezer.

2) Combine tamari, teriyaki sauce, and sesame oil in a small bowl and set aside. Heat 1/2 Tbsp olive oil in a large sauce pan over high heat

3) Follow this rhythm as you stir frequently....
- Add onion and carrots
Cook 2 minutes
- Add scallions, garlic and ginger
Cook 2 minutes
- Add the rest of the olive oil & the quinoa
Cook 2 minutes
- Stir in the sauces
Cook 2 minutes
- Pour in eggs and stir well
Cook 2 minutes
- Throw in peas and remove from heat. Stir well until the peas are thoroughly warmed.

4) Serve and enjoy while hot!

Make sure to sip wine while cooking ;)