Hot Creamy Quinoa with Dried Cranberries and Toasted Pecans

 

I was first introduced to this amazing grain called Quinoa (pronounced Keen-wah) when I was taking an Ethnic Studies class at Humboldt State, and have been using it  in many of my dishes ever since. Here's a breakfast version that I make at least once a week and have gotten the kids hooked on as well. Quinoa is very high in protein and will provide long-lasting energy throughout your morning.

 

Recipe

 

1 1/2 cups soymilk or cow's milk

1/4 tsp salt
1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained (put it in a metal mesh colander that has small hols in it, and rinse it well)
1/2 cup dried cranberries
2 TB maple syrup, honey or agave syrup
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground ginger
1/4 tsp allspice or ground cloves
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 cup chopped, toasted pecans (put under broiler for about 3-4 minutes or place in a frying pan and toast over medium heat until browned)

1. Bring milk and salt to a boil in a pan (watch it carefully, so it doesn't over-boil...you don't even want to know HOW MANY times that has happened to me).Mix in quinoa and cranberries and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 15-20 minutes until liquid has evaporated.

2. Stir in maple syrup, cinnamon, ginger, allspice, and nutmeg. Serve warm with more milk and pecans.

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Who likes to change it up?

~Use your favorite nuts like almonds, hazelnuts, walnuts instead of pecans.
~Add raisins instead of cranberries.
~Use a different grain like rice,but make sure you boil it long enough until liquid has evaporated. 


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 What is Quinoa?

It is an ancient "grain" native to South America. It was at one time called "the gold of the Incas," who apparently served it to their warriors to increase stamina. Quinoa gives you a "complete protein" which means it has all 9 essential amino acids in it. Some health experts say it can be good for people who get migraines, have diabetes, and atherosclerosis because of it's high manganese, magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus content. If you have never tried this grain before, I would highly recommend it, not only for it's nutritional benefits but it's just very tasty. I would check your local health food store, but if you can't find it there...you can always buy it from amazon! :) 

PS. Did you notice that I used a kid sized bowl in the picture? Gotta use whatever you have around, right? :)

Search Amazon.com for quinoa grain