Quinoa For Breakfast?

Quinoa is an amino acid-rich (protein) seed that has a fluffy, creamy, slightly crunchy texture and a somewhat nutty flavor when cooked. Most commonly considered a grain, quinoa is actually a relative of leafy green vegetables like spinach and Swiss chard.

It is a recently rediscovered ancient "grain" native to South America, quinoa was once called "the gold of the Incas," who recognized its value in increasing the stamina of their warriors. Not only is quinoa high in protein, but the protein it supplies is complete protein, meaning that it includes all nine essential amino acids. Not only is quinoa's amino acid profile well balanced, making it a good choice for vegans concerned about adequate protein intake, but quinoa is especially well-endowed with the amino acid lysine, which is essential for tissue growth and repair. In addition to protein, quinoa features a host of other health-building nutrients. Because quinoa is a very good source of manganese as well as a good source of magnesium, iron, copper and phosphorus, this "grain" may be especially valuable for persons with migraine headaches, diabetes and atherosclerosis.

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Pumpkin Breakfast Quinoa

1/4 cup quinoa

1/2 almond milk (sub. coconut milk or cows milk)

1/4 cup pumpkin puree

1 tbsp Mila (or Chia Seeds or Ground Flax)

1 tsp. maple syrup

Dash of cinnamon

Soak quinoa for 5 minutes in water, drain and add to pot with milk. Bring to a boil, reduce to simmer and cover. Let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the milk is absorbed and the quinoa is fluffy. Stir in the remaining ingredients and transfer to serving bowl. Add toppings, then eat!

Toppings:

chunky apple sauce (recipe here)

chopped walnuts

splash of almond milk