Oatmeal is fabulous and fibre-rific. We all know that. But sometimes, it can be a little too, um, hearty? Quinoa is light and yet so satisfying, and being the protein powerhouse that is, it's a nice way to shake up the ol' breakfast routine. It doesn't have a lot of flavour of it's own, but will magically take on all of the loveliness you put with it. Plus it's really fun to eat. And breakfast should have a little fun factor to it.
I've made breakfast quinoa a couple of times now, and I'm kind of hooked. There's not a lot of stirring, which I appreciate, because I stir for a living, and sometimes a girl just has to give it a rest. I love the whole simmer, cover and forget about it breakfast. Just be sure to set your timer for 12 minutes - otherwise you'll have burnt quinoa, and I've done it. Not pretty.
I kind of love that you flavour the quinoa with vanilla and cinnamon and orange zest then nestle it into bowls. I'm having a torrid love affair with anything peach so of course slices of those beauties go on top. If you don't have peaches or hate them, then substitute whatever has your fancy - apples or pears would be lovely right now or heck go wild and crazy and slice a banana on top. Or go crazier and do it up with mangoes! Give it a drizzle of maple syrup or a little honey, even brown sugar would do. Sprinkle with toasted pecans and add a splash of almond milk. A hot and healthy breakfast in under 20 minutes. And you don't even have to stir that much.
See, not so weird after all.
Orange Scented Quinoa Cereal with Maple Syrup and Pecans
1 cup quinoa, rinsed thoroughly
1/2 tsp vanilla
zest of one orange
1 tsp cinnamon
2 peaches, sliced (or other fruit of your choosing)
4 tbsp maple syrup or honey or brown sugar
1/2 cup toasted pecan pieces (or other nuts)
almond milk, soy milk, or cow's milk. whatever your preference
In a medium saucepan, bring water to boil. Stir in the rinsed quinoa. Bring back to a boil, cover, reduce heat and cook for 12 minutes, until tender. Drain into a fine mesh strainer and put back into the pot. cover and let stand for 5 minutes. Transfer into a large bowl and stir in the vanilla, orange zest and cinnamon. Divide into bowls and garnish with fruit, maple syrup and nuts. Add a splash of milk. The cooked quinoa will keep in the fridge, covered for a few days, so go ahead a make a large batch. It's that good. Serves 3-4. Adapted from 20 minute Supper Club
I'm a big fan of breakfast quinoa and love your flavors here with the pecans, maple syrup, and peaches. I often use a couple of drops orange flower water to flavor the quinoa as it cooks. Great post!
ReplyDeleteI like it! I've been looking for some new breakfast ideas, will have to give this a try!
ReplyDeleteMy dad was actually introduced to Quinoa as a breakfast cereal- mixed with oatmeal i think. Makes sense, a good source of protein.
I love making whole grain breakfast cereals with things other than oats- I have gotten into the habit of turning any leftover grains into porridge with the help of a bit of almond milk, cinnamon, and maple syrup (and usually at least one fruit). This morning it was brown rice and millet- but thanks for the reminder that I need to get quinoa into rotation again soon!
ReplyDeleteRenee, I love the idea of using quinoa for breakfast...your look delicious with the orange zest...so healthy, a great way to start the day.
ReplyDeleteHope you are having a fantastic week :-)
Jess, thanks for the tip about the orange flower water - I'll have to try it! Ash, sounds like your Dad is on to something good. Amy, your breakfast sounds delicious! Thanks, Juliana!
ReplyDeletehaha funny thing is that when i first started eating quinoa it was in this form (as a breakfast cereal) so when i came across it in salads i was...shocked! haha. have you tried black quinoa before? i didnt quite like the yellow ones at first, and found the black quinoa more palatable somehow.
ReplyDeleteWhy the hell not, indeed? I'd never have thought of quinoa for breakfast either- thanks for planting the seed. Combined with maple syrup and pecans, it sounds fabulous. And beautiful photos, as always!
ReplyDeleteOh yum, this looks absolutely lovely! And so pretty against the patterned napkins and wood table. I really need to try this out, seems like a great alternative to oatmeal.
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