Canihua is a grain with excellent nutritional properties and is located within the cereal family. It is native to America, specifically Peru and Bolivia or an area better known as the Andean Altiplano where it is also known in the indigenous Quechua language as Kañiwa.
Its cultivation dates back a long time, making direct reference to many millennia of antiquity and it is a product that only occurs in high mountain conditions. Its scientific name is ''Chenopodium pallidicaule'' and
its nutritional composition is similar to that of quinoa , considered families of species.
In Spain it is grown recently and in a controlled manner, creating conditions similar to those necessary in greenhouses. However, its production is low for the demand for this product and its benefits, properties and way of use captivate consumers. Let's see why!
Nutritional properties of canihua
For every 100g of canihua consumption, it provides the following to our body:
- Protein 15.18gr
- Fats 8.4g
- Carbohydrates 58.6gr
- Fibers 3.8gr
This grain is present in almost all the meals of the inhabitants of the highlands due to its high protein source, in addition to having very important minerals such as calcium, phosphorus and iron, ideal for increasing hemoglobin and reducing anemia. It also has significant amounts of vitamin B 1 to regulate the metabolism related to the foods we consume.
Canihua is
such a nutritionally rich food that it is included in the list of foods with great nutritional potential to be used in NASA projects . It is considered ideal for making energy bars that can be consumed by astronauts going on missions in space.
Benefits of canihua
Suitable for weight loss diets
It is a grain that lacks fat, so it can be included in diets in its various presentations. It can be found in the form of flour, consumed cooked or in drinks. Alternate between these options to avoid falling into a routine.
Reduces LDL cholesterol
Lacking fat, its high fiber content acts as a cleaner of waste in the digestive tract, the place par excellence where fat is deposited. In this way it regulates intestinal transit and helps purify the body.
Provides energy
This grain provides energy to our body naturally to carry out daily tasks. In addition, it is capable of providing lysine, which is an amino acid that the body cannot produce and serves for the growth of living beings.
How can we consume canihua?
Wash it well in a very fine sieve and boil it for about 8 or 10 minutes over medium heat.
- In salads this grain makes a good combination as well as in stir-fries with vegetables.
- In the rice while it is cooking, it is recommended to add small quantities and enrich it with a special touch.
- They also make energy drinks by adding cloves and cinnamon, boiling it and finally adding sugar. It can be consumed hot or at room temperature.
- Another preparation that you should not miss trying is the preparation of soups and stews with canihua.
As it does not contain gluten, it is a very interesting food for people with celiac disease.
