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Start your day right with this 15 minute quinoa porridge, a nourishing blend of creamy goodness that’s not only satisfying but also packed with essential nutrients. It’s a hearty and delicious breakfast option that is perfect for sharing with your little ones too.
Breakfast Quinoa Porridge
If you’re feeling a bit tired of the usual oatmeal routine or wanting to bring some diversity to your breakfast, this warm and comforting quinoa porridge is a perfect solution!
While I often rotate between favorite oatmeal recipes for the little ones, I’ve been exploring different ways to incorporate quinoa into our morning meals. From overnight quinoa oats to baked breakfast quinoa with zucchini, and even quinoa wraps slathered with peanut butter and fruit – I’ve been on a bit of a breakfast quinoa adventure!
And now, there’s this effortless porridge to add to the list. it is seriously so easy to make and you can enjoy throughout the week with whatever toppings you are in the mood for that day.
Table of Contents
Ingredients
I am highlighting just the ones that need further explanation. The complete list is in the recipe card below.
- Quinoa – this tiny seed is is a nutritional powerhouse! it’s an excellent source of iron, fiber, omega 3 fatty acids, and protein. Yellow variety will work best as it cooks up fluffy and the mild flavor pairs well with the sweetness of applesauce.
- Milk – I recommend whole milk as it provides a rich and creamy texture. But if dairy-free, feel free to use any of your favorite, including almond milk, oat milk, and coconut milk (full-fat unsweetened canned coconut milk is especially delicious in this porridge!).
- Applesauce – you can use store-bought or homemade unsweetened applesauce (super easy to make).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: In a saucepan combine all the ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer, covered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Milk rises as it heats up be sure to cook on low heat so it doesn’t spill out of the pot.
Step 2: If the porridge is too thick, you can add more milk to reach your desired consistency. once the quinoa is cooked, spoon it into bowls and add your favorite toppings.
Tips for Success
- Don’t forget to rinse the quinoa – it will help remove a natural coating called saponin, which can have a bitter taste. While most commercially available quinoa is pre-rinsed, giving it a quick rinse under cold water can further ensure the removal of any residual bitterness. Simply place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse it under cold running water for a minute or two.
- Adjust the quinoa milk ratio – if you prefer a creamier porridge, feel free to add more milk.
- Add sweeteners – if you like your porridge on the sweeter side, you can add some honey, maple syrup, or date syrup.
Quinoa Porridge Topping Suggestions
The best part, in my opinion, is customizing the porridge with all my favorite toppings! Some suggestions include:
- Favorite fruits (mashed or pureed) – like banana, mangoes, strawberries, and blueberries
- Peanut butter or any nut or seed butter
- Seeds – like hemp seeds and flax seeds
- Plain Greek yogurt
- Flavored yogurt – try this 3 ingredient vanilla yogurt, strawberry yogurt, or mango yogurt
- No Added Sugar Granola
- Jam – add any of your favorite. If looking for an easy homemade option, try this sugar free strawberry jam or mango jam.
- Mashed sweet potatoes or butternnut squash
- Drizzle of honey or maple syrup – for added sweetness.
- Date syrup – a great no added sugar alternative
- Unsweetened coconut flakes
- Chocolate chips
Storage
Transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Be sure to add toppings right before serving to maintain their texture and flavor.
FAQ
You can use red quinoa but keep in mind that it has a nuttier and chewier texture. Quinoa flakes are another option. It has the benefit of shorter cook time and will result in a smoother texture, which is a great option for young babies.
You can heat the quinoa porridge in the microwave in 30-second increments until warmed through, adding a splash of milk to restore the creamy consistency. Alternatively, you can reheat the porridge on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking, and also adding a splash of milk for creaminess.
More Breakfast Porridge Ideas
Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!
Quinoa Breakfast Porridge
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa (180g), rinsed and drained
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (65g)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- In a saucepan combine all the ingredients and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, and simmer, covered for 12-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Milk rises as it heats up be sure to cook on low heat so it doesn’t spill out of the pot.
- Transfer to a bowl and enjoy with your favorite toppings!
YUM!
Okay, so I’m thinking about going on the Whole30 thing, not necessarily to lose weight, but more so to see how I can cope with eating less sugar and “inflammatory” foods. I’ll be eating a heck of a lot of eggs, so I may be making more fried eggs in the morning! This greek-inspired recipe sounds like something I’ll need to make all the time!
Good for you, Lisa! I think you should totally do it. I’ve been eating a lot of sugar (specifically, ice cream and chocolate) lately and have been feeling pretty crummy as a result. I seriously can’t live without eggs and good thing since they’re so nutritious! Can’t wait for you to try 😉