April 28, 2021

12 Amazing Quinoa Recipes You Can Feel Good About Eating

So, here’s the deal: I really love quinoa. It is full of protein, nutrients and antioxidants. It is a staple in my diet. I like quinoa (pronounced KEEN-wa) in salads and I like to use quinoa as a base for saucy meals. However, I’ve been hearing murmurs that suggest that maybe it is not the most ethical food to eat. These rumblings aren’t entirely unfounded but I think I’ve found a way to continue my quinoa obsession in a way that feels okay and supportive of farmers. Keep reading to learn more about quinoa and to see 12 of my favorite vegan and gluten free quinoa recipes.

The Implications of Quinoa’s Rise to Fame

In recent years, the demand for quinoa has become HUGE. In a short time, quinoa has gone from being a local staple in the regions where it is grown to being a global commodity. This means that the price of quinoa has gone up. LOTS. In fact, between 2006 and 2013, the cost of quinoa tripled. Sure, higher prices are theoretically great for the South American farmers who grow it. Concerns that higher prices have meant that the people who are producing quinoa are no longer able to access it for their own consumption have largely been debunked (check out this article from NPR for some interesting insight). However, this doesn’t mean that the increased production of quinoa is without consequences.

As farmers increase their production to meet demand, they are seeing a notable decrease in soil quality and an increase in soil erosion in many of the South American areas where quinoa has been grown for generations. Farmers are expanding their cultivation areas to grow more of this superfood. This is displacing llamas who historically provide fertilization for the soil and help prevent erosion. Furthermore, the huge demand for quinoa has, in many areas, reduced crop rotation. This has lead to lessening soil quality. The Institute for Food and Development Policy (Food First) published an article, “The Story Behind the Popular Superfood, Quinoa” that offers great information about this.

Fair Trade Quinoa

I’m not going to tell you not to eat quinoa! Instead I’m going to present you with a list of my favorite quinoa recipes along with pictures that will make you drool. Is quinoa an ethical food? That’s my question. I can find research that supports both sides of the argument. However, one thing really can’t be disputed: Buying fair trade certified quinoa is the best way to assure that you are supporting the farmers who are growing your food. Fair Trade Standards enforce environmental protection and encourage sustainable farming practice.

Alter Eco is a brand that offers fair trade and organic quinoa. I also really like Simpli Quinoa. This women and BIPOC owned company works directly with farmers and provides ethically sourced quinoa. These are the two brands I buy. If you have other recommendations for responsible quinoa companies to support, please let me know!