Quinoa, spelled, chia seeds, ginger. . . foods that until recently were ''unknown'' to many but that, little by little, have been introduced into our pantry, forming part of it like other foods such as rice, pasta or cereals.
All of them provide us with essential nutrients for our body and can be part of our diet without any risk.
So if you are looking to incorporate foods rich in nutrients and flavor to make a varied diet, these foods cannot be missing:
Quinoa
Also known as quinoa, it is a cereal that has twice the protein of any other cereal, contains 8 amino acids, is easily digestible and does not contain gluten. It contains, on average, 16% protein, but its content can reach up to 23%, more than double that of other cereals. This high protein content is remarkably close to the percentage recommended by the FAO for human nutrition. For this reason, it has been proposed by NASA as a basic food for long-duration space travel.
Chia seeds
It comes from a herbaceous plant considered one of the plants with the highest concentration of fatty acids. Its seed is used as food, which has 40% carbohydrates, mainly insoluble fiber. It contains twice as much protein as any other seed and more calcium than whole milk.
teff flour
One of the main characteristics that has driven the cultivation of teff is that it is a very noble plant. It requires little care and resources to grow, however, it contains a high nutritional power. Teff flour contains slow absorption carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium, 8 amino acids including lysine and proteins.
soy beans
Belonging to the legume family, it contains mainly oils and proteins (60% of its composition) and in less quantity carbohydrates, in addition, it contains the 8 amino acids. It is used in multiple by-products and has been ideal for the vegan community.
Spelt
Also known as spelled wheat with nutrients very similar to wheat, it mainly contains carbohydrates and potassium. But what makes it different is its high content of riboflavin (B2), ideal for strengthening vision, and the presence of niacin (B3), essential for the growth and good condition of the nervous system.
AND. . . Where do you find these foods?
Previously, 10 or 15 years ago, these types of foods could only be found in specialized stores, but they have been so in demand and popular that they have now become part of the foods commonly offered in supermarkets, although the larger ones quality can be found in specialized grain and cereal stores such as Casa Perris.
Incorporate these foods into a diet such as the Mediterranean, for example, since they are not only compatible with this type of diet but are also highly recommended.