Description
A warm and comforting Cinnamon Orange Quinoa recipe that combines fluffy quinoa cooked in vanilla plant-based milk with citrusy orange juice and zest, aromatic cinnamon and nutmeg, and a touch of sweetness from sugar and dried cherries. Perfect for a nutritious breakfast or a wholesome snack.
Ingredients
Scale
Quinoa Base
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 ½ cups vanilla plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
Flavorings and Sweeteners
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Toppings
- A handful of dried cherries (or cranberries, or raisins)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine the quinoa, vanilla plant-based milk, and orange juice. Stir in the sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg until everything is fully incorporated and evenly mixed.
- Bring to Boil: Allow the mixture to come to a light boil. Then increase the heat to medium-high to make the boil more vigorous. Let it bubble actively for about one minute to ensure the quinoa starts cooking thoroughly.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the saucepan with a lid and let the quinoa cook for approximately 20 to 30 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
- Serve: Spoon the cooked quinoa into bowls and top with extra fresh orange zest, a sprinkle of nutmeg, and a handful of dried cherries or your choice of dried fruit for added texture and sweetness. Serve hot for best flavor and comfort.
Notes
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove its natural bitterness if desired.
- You can substitute dried cherries with dried cranberries or raisins for a different flavor.
- Adjust the sweetness by modifying the amount of sugar or using a natural sweetener like maple syrup.
- This recipe uses plant-based milk for a vegan option, but dairy milk can be substituted if preferred.
- For a creamier texture, stir occasionally during simmering.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: cinnamon orange quinoa, vegan breakfast, plant-based quinoa, warm quinoa recipe, healthy quinoa breakfast
