Lamb Chops with Red Chile Glaze, Quinoa and Steamed Broccoli

Ingredients

• 1 cup White Quinoa (Any color of quinoa will work)
• 2 cup Water (Or use vegetable/chicken broth for more flavor)
• 1 tbsp Olive Oil (Optional, for toasting)
• 0.5 tsp Salt (Adjust to taste)

Instructions

1. 1

   Measure the quinoa and place it in a fine-mesh sieve. Rinse thoroughly under cold running water for at least 1 minute, rubbing the grains with your fingers. This crucial step removes the natural bitter coating called saponin. Drain well.

2. 2

   Optional step for enhanced flavor: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed and drained quinoa. Toast for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the grains are dry, slightly golden, and smell nutty.

3. 3

   Carefully pour the water (or broth) into the saucepan with the quinoa. Add the salt and give it one quick stir to combine.

4. 4

   Increase the heat to high and bring the liquid to a rolling boil. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest possible setting, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.

5. 5

   After 15 minutes, all the liquid should be absorbed. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, still covered, for 5-10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time; this allows the quinoa to steam and become fluffy.

6. 6

   Remove the lid and gently fluff the quinoa with a fork, separating the grains. Serve warm as a side dish or let it cool to use in salads and other recipes.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Broccoli (about 1 large head)
• 1 cup Water (for steaming)
• 0.5 tsp Salt (or to taste)
• 0.25 tsp Black Pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Broccoli: Wash the broccoli head thoroughly under cold running water. Pat dry. Cut the large head into bite-sized florets, aiming for a uniform size for even cooking. Peel the tough outer layer of the main stalk and slice it into 1/4-inch thick coins; they are delicious and nutritious too.

2. 2

   Set Up the Steamer: Pour about 1 inch of water into a large pot or saucepan. Place a steamer basket inside, ensuring the water level is below the bottom of the basket. Bring the water to a rolling boil over high heat.

3. 3

   Steam the Broccoli: Carefully place the broccoli florets and stem pieces into the steamer basket. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and reduce the heat to medium. Steam for 4-5 minutes.

4. 4

   Check for Doneness: After 4 minutes, carefully lift the lid and check the broccoli. It should be a vibrant, bright green color and tender-crisp. You should be able to easily pierce the thickest part of a stem with a fork. Avoid overcooking, which makes it mushy and dull in color.

5. 5

   Season and Serve: Using tongs or an oven mitt, carefully remove the hot steamer basket from the pot. Transfer the broccoli to a serving dish. Immediately season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Toss gently to combine and serve warm.