Peruvian Quinoa Soup
Peruvian Quinoa Soup, often called Quinoa a la Huancaína, is a comforting and creamy soup from the Andean region of Peru. It typically features quinoa as the star ingredient, simmered in a flavorful broth with potatoes, carrots, and a rich, spicy cheese sauce made from ají amarillo peppers and evaporated milk.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This soup is a balanced and nutritious meal, providing a good source of plant-based protein and fiber from the quinoa, along with vitamins from the vegetables. A standard serving generally contains around 300-400 calories, with a moderate amount of carbohydrates and a relatively low fat content unless extra cheese is added.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 8 g |
| Carbs | 30 g |
| Fat | 8 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sugar | 4 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Magnesium | 85 mg |
| Phosphorus | 180 mg |
| Folate | 90 mcg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.3 mg |
| Vitamin C | 15 mg |
| Manganese | 1.2 mg |
Per 1 bowl (350 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
The dish is a fascinating blend of ancient Andean superfoods and Spanish colonial influences, showcasing how quinoa was adapted into new culinary forms. Nutritionally, it's unique for being a complete protein source from a single grain, making it a particularly valuable dish for vegetarians and those seeking sustainable nutrition.
