How to use quinoa for a healthier vegan pizza
What's the story
Quinoa, the super grain, has become a staple in vegan cooking due to its high protein content and versatility. This article presents creative ways to use quinoa in vegan pizza recipes, making them a healthier alternative to traditional options. Whether it's in the crust or as a unique topping, quinoa can add a nutritious and delicious twist to your favorite dish.
Crust
Quinoa crust pizza
To make a quinoa crust, start by soaking one cup of quinoa overnight. Blend the drained quinoa with a quarter cup of water, one teaspoon of baking powder, and a pinch of salt until smooth. Spread this batter on a baking sheet and bake at 425 degrees Fahrenheit for 15 minutes. Flip and bake for 10 more minutes before adding your toppings.
Sauce
Quinoa flour for thickening sauce
Quinoa flour is a great thickener for pizza sauce; it doesn't change the taste much. To create a hearty tomato sauce, simply simmer crushed tomatoes on low heat. Then, slowly whisk in two tablespoons of quinoa flour until your sauce reaches the perfect thickness. This trick not only thickens your sauce but also gives your meal a bonus protein boost.
Toppings
Sprouted quinoa toppings
Sprouted quinoa is a great way to add texture and nutrition to your vegan pizzas. To sprout quinoa, rinse it well and soak it in water for six hours or overnight. Drain the soaked seeds and leave them covered at room temperature for one to two days, rinsing every eight hours until they sprout. Sprinkle sprouted quinoa over your pizza before baking for added texture and a nutty flavor.
Cheese substitute
Quinoa flakes as cheese alternative
If you want to stay away from processed vegan cheeses, quinoa flakes can be a surprisingly tasty alternative for that melted cheese effect on your pizzas. Simply combine half a cup of quinoa flakes with nutritional yeast flakes, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and just enough water to create a thick, paste-like consistency. This blend will create a delicious, melted cheese-like layer when baked on your pizza.
Dessert pizza
Quinoatella pizza dessert
For a delicious ending, you can't go wrong with the "quinoatella" pizza dessert. This culinary masterpiece features a luscious layer of chocolate hazelnut spread and cooked quinoa, all nestled on a pre-baked crust of ground oats and almonds. Top this scrumptious treat with slices of bananas or strawberries just before serving. Healthy yet decadent, this dessert pizza is a refreshing take on the usual sweet pizzas.