Quinoa - Which Food Group?

[cheval]

Hi, All,

I have some quinoa that I want to try for the first time.

My diet consists mostly of things I can fit into a food pyramid category (Grains, fruits, veggies, beans, dairy).

I can't figure which category quinoa fits in. Is it grains or veggies or beans (protein)??

Thanks,
April

 

[kathryn]

Quinoa is usually considered a grain (though it's actually from a group of foods called 'pseudo grains' that are really seeds). In recipes, it's used as a grain would be used.

I personally wouldn't worry about fitting it in a food pyramid, if that would keep you from eating it. (Though you could consider it either a grain or a protein).