Raw QuinoaVSCooked Quinoa

Raw Quinoa has 9.7g more protein per 100g than Cooked Quinoa — 14.1g vs 4.4g, a 69% difference caused by water loss during cooking, which concentrates protein by weight. Calorie and macronutrient values shift by the same mechanism. Source: USDA FoodData Central.

Source: USDA FoodData Central · Data as of Jan 2026

Nutrition comparison per 100g: Raw Quinoa vs Cooked Quinoa (Source: USDA FoodData Central)
Nutrient (per 100g) Raw QuinoaCooked Quinoa
Protein 14.1 g4.4 g
Calories 368 kcal120 kcal
Total fat 6.1 g1.9 g
Carbohydrates 64.2 g21.3 g

Raw Quinoa

Complete
Contains all 9 essential amino acids. High bioavailability.
Cereal Grains and Pasta USDA #168874
Top Protein
Protein14.1g
Cals
368
Fat
6.1g
Carbs
64.2g

Cooked Quinoa

Complete
Contains all 9 essential amino acids. High bioavailability.
Cereal Grains and Pasta USDA #168917
Protein4.4g
Cals
120
Fat
1.9g
Carbs
21.3g

Which food fits which goal?

Muscle Building & Recovery

Raw Quinoa

With 14.1g of protein per 100g, Raw Quinoa provides the higher protein content needed to support muscle protein synthesis, post-workout recovery, and lean muscle maintenance.

Weight Loss & Calorie Control

Cooked Quinoa

At only 120 calories per 100g, Cooked Quinoa allows you to maintain a calorie deficit while still getting essential nutrients, making it ideal for weight management and fat loss goals.

Maximum Protein per Calorie

Raw Quinoa

Raw Quinoa offers the best protein-to-calorie ratio, delivering 14.1g of protein for just 368 calories, perfect for maximizing protein intake while minimizing caloric load.

Vegetarian & Plant-Based Diets

Raw Quinoa

Both are excellent plant-based options. Raw Quinoa edges ahead with 14.1g of protein per serving, making it slightly better for meeting daily protein requirements on a vegetarian diet.

Low-Carb & Ketogenic Diets

Cooked Quinoa

With only 21.3g of carbohydrates per 100g, Cooked Quinoa fits perfectly into low-carb and ketogenic meal plans while providing substantial protein to maintain muscle mass during carb restriction.

General Fitness & Balanced Nutrition

Raw Quinoa

For everyday fitness enthusiasts seeking balanced nutrition, Raw Quinoa offers a good protein content at 14.1g with 368 calories, fitting well into most active lifestyle meal plans.

What are the key nutritional differences?

Protein Gap
9.7g
-69% difference
Calorie Gap
248
-67% difference
Fat Gap
4.2g
Carb Gap
42.9g

Category Winners

💪
Most Protein
Per 100g serving
Raw Quinoa
📉
Lowest Calories
For weight loss
Cooked Quinoa
Best Efficiency
Protein per calorie
Raw Quinoa

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