Cinnamon Orange Quinoa Recipe
Introduction
Cinnamon Orange Quinoa is a delightful and nutritious breakfast or snack option that combines warm spices with bright citrus flavors. This plant-based dish is easy to make and perfect for a cozy start to your day.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 ½ cups vanilla plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- A handful of dried cherries, cranberries, or raisins
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the quinoa, vanilla plant-based milk, and orange juice in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Step 2: Bring the mixture to a light boil, then increase the heat to medium-high until the boil becomes more vigorous. Let it bubble for about one minute, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Step 3: Serve the quinoa hot, topped with additional fresh orange zest, a pinch of nutmeg, and your choice of dried fruit for added texture and sweetness.
Tips & Variations
- For extra creaminess, stir in a splash of coconut milk just before serving.
- Swap dried cherries for dried apricots or chopped nuts for different flavors and crunch.
- Add a dash of vanilla extract to enhance the sweetness and depth of flavor.
Storage
Store any leftover cinnamon orange quinoa in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of plant-based milk to restore creaminess if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use water instead of plant-based milk?
Yes, you can use water, but using plant-based milk adds creaminess and enhances the vanilla flavor in this recipe.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Quinoa is naturally gluten-free, making this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet. Just ensure your dried fruit and other ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.
PrintCinnamon Orange Quinoa Recipe
A warm and comforting Cinnamon Orange Quinoa breakfast dish made with vanilla plant-based milk, fresh orange zest, and aromatic spices. This naturally gluten-free, vegan recipe combines quinoa with citrusy sweetness and cozy cinnamon and nutmeg flavors, served hot with dried fruit for a nourishing start to your day.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 3 to 4 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa
- 2 ½ cups vanilla plant-based milk
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon orange zest
- ¾ teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- A handful of dried cherries (or cranberries, or raisins)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the quinoa, vanilla plant-based milk, and orange juice. Stir in the granulated sugar, orange zest, cinnamon, and nutmeg well until everything is fully incorporated.
- Bring to a Boil: Place the saucepan over medium heat and heat the mixture until it begins to lightly boil. Then increase the heat to medium-high.
- Simmer Until Tender: Once the boil becomes more aggressive and bubbles steadily for about a minute, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let the quinoa simmer gently for 20 to 30 minutes. Cook until the quinoa is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve the quinoa hot. Garnish with extra fresh orange zest, a sprinkle of nutmeg, and a handful of dried cherries, cranberries, or raisins to add sweetness and texture.
Notes
- Rinse quinoa thoroughly before cooking to remove any bitterness.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar according to taste.
- Substitute dried cherries with other dried fruits like cranberries or raisins as preferred.
- Use any plant-based milk of choice, such as almond, oat, or soy milk.
- If preferred, add a splash of orange juice after cooking to brighten the flavors.
Keywords: cinnamon orange quinoa, vegan breakfast, gluten free quinoa recipe, plant-based milk quinoa, citrus quinoa, healthy breakfast
