Creamy Quinoa Breakfast Porridge Recipe – Healthy & Protein

Quinoa Breakfast Porridge Recipe – If you’re searching for a wholesome, comforting, and nutrient-packed breakfast option, the Quinoa Breakfast Porridge Recipe is your perfect morning companion. Made with fluffy cooked quinoa simmered in milk (or a dairy-free alternative), sweetened naturally, and flavored with warm spices like cinnamon, this porridge is both satisfying and nourishing. Quinoa is a complete plant-based protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, making it a fantastic alternative to traditional oatmeal.

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Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes

• Active Time: 15 minutes

• Resting Time: 5 minutes

• Cuisines: International / Healthy Breakfast

• Course: Breakfast / Brunch

• Servings: 2

• Calories: 290 kcal per serving

• Total Time: 25 minutes

Equipment

• Medium saucepan

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Serving bowls

Ingredients

For the Porridge:

• 1 cup cooked quinoa (from about ⅓ cup dry quinoa)

• 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)

• ½ cup water

• 1–2 tbsp maple syrup or honey (to taste)

• ½ tsp ground cinnamon

• ¼ tsp vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh berries

• Sliced banana

• Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)

• Shredded coconut

• Chia seeds or flaxseeds

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa (If Not Already Cooked):

   • Rinse ⅓ cup quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove its natural bitter coating (saponin).

   • In a small saucepan, combine the quinoa with ⅔ cup water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 12–15 minutes or until all water is absorbed. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

2. Make the Porridge Base:

   • In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup of the cooked quinoa, 1 cup milk, and ½ cup water.

   • Stir in cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt.

3. Simmer Until Creamy:

   • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the porridge thickens to your desired consistency.

4. Sweeten:

   • Stir in maple syrup or honey to taste. Adjust sweetness as needed.

5. Serve:

   • Divide the porridge between two bowls.

6. Add Toppings:

   • Garnish with fresh fruit, nuts, seeds, or any of your favorite toppings for added texture and flavor.

7. Enjoy:

   • Serve warm for a cozy breakfast, or refrigerate and enjoy chilled for a refreshing twist.

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Nutrition

Tips for Perfect Quinoa Breakfast Porridge

1. Rinse the Quinoa Well – Always rinse quinoa under cold water before cooking to remove its natural coating (saponin), which can make it taste bitter.

2. Use Milk for Creaminess – Cooking quinoa in almond milk, coconut milk, or dairy milk instead of water will create a richer, creamier texture.

3. Sweeten Naturally – Use honey, maple syrup, or mashed ripe bananas instead of refined sugar for a wholesome touch.

4. Batch Cook for Busy Mornings – Make a large batch and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply reheat with a splash of milk.

5. Experiment with Spices – Add cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamom, or vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

• Fruit Toppings – Add fresh berries, sliced bananas, chopped apples, or pomegranate seeds for a fresh and colorful boost.

• Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped almonds, walnuts, or pecans for extra protein and texture.

• Drizzle of Flavor – Top with almond butter, peanut butter, or tahini for richness.

• Chocolate Lovers’ Twist – Add a spoonful of cacao nibs or dark chocolate chips for a dessert-like breakfast.

• Warm & Cozy – Serve hot with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of maple syrup for a comforting morning bowl.

Final Thoughts

This Quinoa Breakfast Porridge is a nourishing way to kickstart your morning, offering a healthy balance of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. It’s incredibly versatile—you can swap milk types, adjust spices, or change up the toppings to keep breakfast exciting. If you’re someone who usually reaches for oats, quinoa makes a refreshing, gluten-free alternative with a unique texture and a higher protein content

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