Quinoa has gained popularity in recent years due to its many health benefits and versatility in cooking. An important step in preparing quinoa is rinsing it thoroughly to remove saponin, a naturally occurring chemical that coats the seeds and can give them a bitter taste. To effectively rinse quinoa, a good colander or strainer with small holes is essential. Finding the best colander for quinoa can be a daunting task, however, given the multitude of options on the market. To save you time and effort, we have researched and compiled a list of the five best colanders specifically designed for rinsing quinoa.
1. OXO Good Grips Colander
The OXO Good Grips Washing Colander is a highly recommended option for rinsing quinoa. It has small square holes that allow the water to flow at the perfect rate, effectively removing impurities and starch from the quinoa seeds. The colander also has extra drain holes that allow excess water to drain away, ensuring a thorough rinse. Plus, the OXO Good Grips Washing Colander’s non-slip handles provide a comfortable grip and make it easy to shake out extra water or pour the quinoa into a cooking bowl without making a mess.
2. Bellemain Micro Perforated Colander
If you prefer a sturdy and durable colander for rinsing quinoa, the Bellemain Micro Perforated Colander is an excellent choice. Made of heavy-duty stainless steel, this colander is rustproof and built to last. Its quick-drain feature allows water to efficiently pass through the micro-perforated holes. While the holes are slightly larger than some of the other colanders on the list, the Bellemain Micro Perforated Colander still provides effective rinsing for quinoa. Its stylish design makes it suitable for display, and it can be easily cleaned in the dishwasher.
3. Winco Single Fine Mesh Strainer
For those who value perfectly rinsed quinoa, the Winco Single Fine Mesh Strainer is an ideal option. This strainer has an ultra-fine mesh that ensures no quinoa slips through during rinsing. It is made of super durable stainless steel and has a single wooden handle that sets it apart from other colanders on the list. While it may be relatively small for larger quantities of pasta, it is perfect for rinsing quinoa in moderate amounts. The Winco Single Fine Mesh Colander is not dishwasher safe due to the wooden handle, but it can be easily washed by hand and is expected to last for years.
4. LiveFresh Micro Perforated Strainer
The LiveFresh Micro Perforated Colander is a high quality option originally designed for professional chefs, but also suitable for home cooks. Made of 18/10 stainless steel, this colander is extremely durable and dishwasher safe. Its micro-perforated holes allow water to drain quickly, eliminating the need to tilt the bowl or wait. The LiveFresh Colander is versatile and can be used to rinse a variety of ingredients including grains, pasta, fruits and vegetables. It comes with a lifetime warranty, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in its quality and performance.
5. HÖLM Strainer Colander Set
If you’re looking for a comprehensive solution to all your straining needs, the HÖLM Strainer Colander Set is an excellent choice. This set includes three colanders of different sizes (1 quart, 2.5 quart and 4.5 quart) made of durable stainless steel. The colanders have closely spaced holes that allow for quick draining without tipping the bowl. The sturdy bases of these colanders prevent tipping and ensure the best possible flavor from your rinsed quinoa. With this set, you can easily drain a variety of ingredients without having to purchase additional colanders.
Bottom Line
Rinsing quinoa is an essential step in its preparation to remove the bitter-tasting saponin. Choosing the right colander for this task can make a big difference in the quality and flavor of your quinoa. From the OXO Good Grips Washing Colander to the HÖLM Strainer Colander Set, the five colanders listed above offer excellent options for effectively rinsing quinoa. Each colander has its own unique features, such as small square holes, micro-perforated mesh, or different sizes to suit different preferences and needs. By investing in a quality colander specifically designed for rinsing quinoa, you can ensure that your quinoa dishes are delicious and free of any unwanted bitterness.
FAQS
Why is it necessary to rinse quinoa?
Rinsing quinoa is essential to remove the naturally occurring chemical called saponin, which coats the seeds and can give them a bitter taste. Thorough rinsing ensures that your quinoa tastes great.
Can I rinse quinoa without using a strainer?
While it is possible to rinse quinoa without a colander, using a colander with small holes makes the rinsing process much more efficient. The small holes prevent the quinoa seeds from slipping through and allow for effective saponin removal.
Can these colanders be used for other ingredients besides quinoa?
Yes, these colanders are versatile and can be used to rinse a variety of ingredients including grains, pasta, fruits and vegetables. They are designed for small ingredients such as quinoa, but can also be used for other types of foods.
Can I put these colanders in the dishwasher?
Yes, some of the colanders on the list, such as the Bellemain Micro-Perforated Colander and the LiveFresh Micro-Perforated Colander, are dishwasher safe. However, it’s important to check the manufacturer’s instructions for each specific colander to ensure proper cleaning and maintenance.
Are these colanders durable and long lasting?
Yes, the colanders listed are made of high-quality materials such as stainless steel, which ensures their durability and longevity. They are designed to withstand regular use and provide reliable performance over time.
Can I use these strainers to strain liquids other than water?
While these colanders are primarily designed to remove water from ingredients like quinoa, they can also be used to remove other liquids, such as rinsing canned beans or draining excess liquid from cooked vegetables. It’s important to note, however, that colanders may not work well for very thin liquids.