Curd Quinoa Bowl
South Indian-style curd rice made with quinoa instead of rice — same cooling tempering with mustard, ginger, and curry leaves.
For 2 servings
Cook the quinoa until tender and fluffy.
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold running water.
- Combine quinoa and water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes until water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
Combine the quinoa with the yogurt base.
In a mixing bowl, combine the slightly cooled quinoa with plain yogurt, grated ginger, and salt. Mash the mixture gently with a spoon to create a creamy, cohesive texture similar to traditional curd rice.
Temper the spices and garnish the bowl.
- Heat oil in a small pan and add mustard seeds until they pop.
- Add urad dal, green chili, and curry leaves, sautéing until dal is golden.
- Pour the hot tempering over the quinoa mixture and stir well.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
TIPWait for the mustard seeds to fully crackle before adding the dal to ensure the oils are properly infused.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Ensure the quinoa is not piping hot when adding yogurt to prevent the yogurt from curdling or becoming too thin.
- 2For a refreshing twist, fold in some pomegranate seeds or grated cucumber just before serving.
- 3If the mixture feels too dry, add a tablespoon of milk or water to reach your desired consistency.
- 4Use a heavy-bottomed pan for tempering to prevent the urad dal from burning before it turns golden.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegan
Substitute dairy yogurt with unsweetened cashew or coconut yogurt for a creamy plant-based version.
low sodiumLow sodium
Omit the salt and increase the amount of fresh ginger and green chili to maintain a bold flavor profile.
spicierSpicier
Add a pinch of red chili flakes or finely chopped bird's eye chilies to the tempering oil.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High Plant-Based Protein
Quinoa provides all nine essential amino acids for muscle repair.
Digestive Health Support
Yogurt contains probiotics that promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Rich in Dietary Fiber
High fiber content aids in blood sugar regulation and satiety.
Heart Healthy Fats
The use of neutral oils and seeds provides unsaturated fats.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is a nutrient-dense alternative to curd rice, offering complete plant-based protein and significantly more fiber than white rice.
