Quinoa Porridge: a delicious and gluten-free alternative to oatmeal.
I grew up eating cream of wheat during the winter. As an adult, I discovered oatmeal and, a few years ago, the ease of making overnight oats. However, as I am gluten-free these days, it is crucial that I stick to gluten-free oatmeal brands, as not all oats are gluten-free. My latest love, which requires a lot less scrutiny in the grocery store, is this quinoa porridge.
I first discovered the deliciousness of quinoa for breakfast a few years ago when I found a box of quinoa flakes at the store. Once the box was gone, it was also gone from my memory until recently. Now that enjoying a hearty quinoa breakfast is back in my life, I don’t plan on letting it leave again.
One of the best things about having quinoa for breakfast is that you start your day with plenty of plant-based protein. Plus, the versatility of this breakfast will rival your favorite bowl of oatmeal. You can top it with anything you like, including fruit, nuts, seeds, nut butter, and spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, allspice, and cloves.
Is Quinoa Porridge Healthy?
If you want a tasty yet healthy breakfast, look no further than quinoa porridge. Quinoa is a superfood that packs quite a nutritional wallop with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is low in fat and calories, and you can control those amounts further by opting for low-fat, no-fat, or plant-based milk alongside a sugar substitute.
Monk fruit is an excellent keto-friendly sweetener that is lower in calories than maple syrup. I also recommend date syrup if you have never tried it. With only a few more calories than maple syrup, it provides extra vitamins, protein, calcium, iron, and potassium.
Make It With Dairy Or Dairy-Free!
Although this recipe calls for whole milk, you can choose any milk you like. I always have canned coconut milk in my pantry and unsweetened, plain almond milk in my fridge. Both make a tasty bowl of quinoa breakfast porridge. You can also use soy, oat, rice, or nut-based milk for the same great results. Sometimes, if I have the time, I also like to make my own dairy-free milk!
To make your own plant-based milk, simply blend one cup of your preferred nuts, seeds, or grains (like almonds, cashews, oats, or sunflower seeds) with four cups of filtered water in a high-speed blender for one to two minutes or until smooth. For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of salt, a dash of vanilla extract, or a date for sweetness. Strain the mixture through a nut milk bag or fine mesh strainer into a clean container, and it’s ready to use!
How to make ahead and store
Prepared quinoa porridge can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. I recommend leaving the toppings off when storing the porridge and adding them before eating.
Serving Suggestions
Quinoa porridge is a filling and delicious way to start your day. You don’t need to add much other than your favorite toppings. I enjoy it with a Frozen Fruit Smoothie or this Homemade Caramel Vanilla Iced Coffee (it’s better than what you get at the drive-thru). Once you try this recipe, you might also like this Coconut Milk Quinoa Fruit Salad. It is so refreshing.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 cups water
- 3 tablespoons maple syrup
- 2 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon plus more for serving
- 2 tablespoons chia seeds
- Walnuts, almonds, or pecans chopped, for garnish
- Fresh fruit for garnish
Instructions
- Toast quinoa in a saucepan for about 30 seconds over medium heat.
- Add water to the toasted quinoa and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low, cover with a lid slightly ajar, and simmer for 13 to 15 minutes or until water is absorbed and quinoa is fluffy.
- Transfer the cooked quinoa to a blender and add maple syrup, whole milk, and cinnamon. Blend the mixture until smooth.
- Serve in bowls topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and chia seeds. Top with fruit and nuts.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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