(Versatile Vegetarian)
Cook the quinoa according to the directions on the package. If you bought the quinoa in bulk, try the following method. Add 1 part quinoa to 2 parts hot liquid (water or broth). Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer and and cook until quinoa is tender and looks translucent (about 12 minutes). Fluff cooked quinoa with a fork.
In a medium skillet, heat the oil and sauté the onion until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the carrots, garlic, and cumin, and cook until carrots are wilted, about 2 minutes.
Stir in the quinoa. chickpeas, orange juice, raisins, salt, and cinnamon. Cook, covered until the juice is absorbed and the flavors are blended, about 10 minutes. Stir in the cilantro.
4 servings at 4 POINTS per serving: 205 calories, 4g total fat, 6g dietary fiber
NOTE: Quinoa has a natural protective coating called saponin which will give the grain a bitter flavor if you cook with it on. The quinoa you get in bulk at your co-op should have already been cleaned of saponin, but if not, you can clean off the saponin yourself. Place 1 cup of quinoa with saponin in a blender with 2 cups of water. Pulse the blender on and off a few times until the water becomes cloudy. Strain off the cloudy water. Repeat with fresh water until the water remains clear. Strain the quinoa through a fine mesh strainer.