123 Years, Anyone?

How many years do you hope to live?  If longevity is your goal, you may want to consider moving to Bolivia, though you probably wouldn't ever be in strong contention for the title of oldest living individual there because that honor has already been bestowed upon Carmelo Flores.  He and his family claim he was born in 1890, though it is impossible to confirm because that country didn't start issuing birth certificates until 1940.  Suffice to say that Mr. Flores certainly LOOKS every minute of his 123 years, and I mention that with all due respect and admiration, though we probably shouldn't be anxiously awaiting a miracle moisturizer from South American anytime soon.  I'm just saying . . .

Of more interest is the fact that Carmelo attributes his longevity to daily walks in shoes made of recycled tires, frequent naps (or sometimes just one long one, God bless him), and a diet rich in quinoa, mushrooms, and coca, a mild stimulant that staves off hunger and which he keeps in his mouth most of the time.  He does not eat noodles or rice and says that quinoa and potatoes are particularly delicious together.  There is a lesson here for us.  

Quinoa is a superior gluten-free source of protein, fiber, and iron.  Since it is a small seed, it cooks up fairly quickly and adds a pleasant texture to salads or vegetable dishes.  If you've already tried it in those forms, here's a new idea for you, and one that is reminiscent of how our friend Carmelo may sometimes eat it.

QUINOA CAKES   

2 cups of cooked and cooled quinoa
1/2 tsp. of salt
2 tsps. of smoked paprika
1/2 tsp. of cumin
1/2 tsp. of dried oregano
2 large eggs, lightly beaten
Vegetable oil

Combine all ingredients into a "dough" moist enough to form into balls that hold their shape.  If the mixture is too dry, add another egg.  Heat a lightly oiled skillet.  Form the quinoa mixture into 1/4-cup-size balls, then place them in the hot skillet and use a spatula to gently flatten them out.  Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and brown the other side, about 2 minutes more.  Remove from pan and season with sea salt and fresh black pepper.  

I suspect a dipping sauce would be a nice accompaniment to these -- perhaps plain Greek yogurt mixed with Dijon mustard, green onions, and garlic powder.  

I don't know about you, but I'm feeling healthier already.  Thank you, Carmelo Flores!