Golden Turmeric Quinoa

We had an unforgettable week in Cape Town earlier this year and this dish of healthy golden delights pays homage to the flavours and experiences we savoured during our stay in this vibrant city.

Inspired by the wonderful chefs at Our Local, I think it captures the essence of Cape Town’s plant-based culinary scene, blending fresh, seasonal ingredients with global influences to create a symphony of delicious flavours. While it’s not an exact replica of their recipe, I hope my interpretation will tantalise your taste buds and you’ll fall in love with this medley of nutritious golden vegetables.

Simple, nutritious, and bursting with colour, this one-pot wonder takes just 25 to 30 minutes to prepare. So, it is the ideal choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

Loaded with healthy carbs, plant-based proteins, and the golden goodness of turmeric, each spoonful is a celebration of health and flavour.

With just five main ingredients, including the star of the show – turmeric – this dish proves that simplicity is the key to culinary bliss.

Ingredients

2 cups quinoa, washed well
2 onions, chopped
2 carrots, grated – keep some ribbons of carrot for garnish
1 small sweet potatoes, grated
1 yellow pepper, cut into thin slices
2 tbsp olive oil
2 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp black pepper, ground
1 tsp pink Himalayan salt (optional)
4 cups hot vegetable stock
For garnish: chopped fresh herbs, ribbons of raw carrot and some sliced almonds

Note: you can easily swap the vegetables I’ve listed for something else, such as yellow courgettes, butternut squash or cauliflower.

Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a medium pan and sautee the chopped onions with a pinch of salt, add the grated carrots and sweet potatoes and mix for about 5-8 minutes until nice and golden. Add the turmeric, salt, and pepper and mix for 30-40 seconds.
Add the quinoa, stir into the vegetables and then add the stock.
Bring to the boil, and then reduce to a low heat
Simmer for 25-30 minutes and continue to stir regularly, making sure that the ingredients don’t stick.
After 15 minutes stir in the slices of yellow pepper
Leave the dish to rest for about 5 minutes before serving. Or leave it to cool and serve cold – it’s just as tasty!
Garnish with the ribbons of carrot, fresh herbs and almonds

And just look at the nutritional facts. This golden bowl of delights is not only bursting with flavour, but it is also packed with essential nutrients to nourish your body and soul.

Turmeric:

Anti-inflammatory properties due to curcumin, potentially reducing inflammation and associated conditions.
Antioxidant effects that may help protect against chronic diseases and aging.
Potential to improve brain health and lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
May aid in managing symptoms of arthritis and joint pain.
Supports heart health by improving endothelial function and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Quinoa:

High protein content with all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source.
Rich in fiber, promoting digestive health, aiding in weight management, and stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Contains various vitamins and minerals like iron, magnesium, and B-vitamins, supporting overall health and energy levels.
Gluten-free and suitable for individuals with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.
Versatile and easy to incorporate into various dishes, providing a nutrient-rich alternative to grains.

Carrots:

Rich in beta-carotene, promoting eye health, vision, and reducing the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
High in fiber, aiding in digestion, promoting gut health, and supporting weight management.
Contains vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, potassium, and vitamin B6, supporting bone health and immune function.
Supports skin health and may contribute to a healthy complexion due to its vitamin A content.
May help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Sweet Potato:

High in fiber, promoting digestive health, aiding in weight management, and stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Rich in vitamins and minerals like vitamin A, vitamin C, potassium, and manganese, supporting overall health and immune function.
Contains antioxidants like beta-carotene, which may help protect against chronic diseases and inflammation.
Supports heart health by lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Versatile ingredient, suitable for various dishes, and provides a natural sweetness without added sugars.

Onion:

Rich in antioxidants like quercetin, which may have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Contains prebiotic fibers that promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria, supporting digestive health and immune function.
May help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
Supports heart health by lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Offers antibacterial and antiviral properties, aiding in the prevention of infections and boosting the immune system.