Cocoa-almond baked breakfast quinoa is a wholesome and flavorful way to start your day. This recipe combines cooked quinoa with cocoa, almond milk, and other tasty ingredients to create a nutritious and satisfying breakfast dish. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 2 cups almond milk (or any milk of your choice)
- 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sliced almonds (optional, for garnish)
- Fresh berries or sliced bananas (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish or casserole dish (8×8 inches or similar size) with cooking spray or butter.
- Cook the Quinoa:
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa and almond milk. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and the liquid is absorbed. It should be tender but not mushy.
- Prepare the Cocoa-Almond Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cocoa powder, maple syrup (or honey), vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until you have a smooth mixture.
- Combine the Quinoa and Cocoa-Almond Mixture:
- Once the quinoa is cooked, remove it from heat and fluff it with a fork. Pour the cocoa-almond mixture over the cooked quinoa and stir until everything is well combined.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Pour the quinoa mixture into the greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the top is set and the edges are slightly golden.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Remove the cocoa-almond baked breakfast quinoa from the oven. You can garnish it with sliced almonds and fresh berries or sliced bananas if desired.
- Enjoy:
- Serve warm and enjoy your delicious and nutritious breakfast quinoa!
This cocoa-almond baked breakfast quinoa is a great alternative to traditional oatmeal or cereal. It’s rich, chocolaty, and can be customized with your favorite toppings and additions like chopped nuts, shredded coconut, or a dollop of Greek yogurt. Enjoy a warm and satisfying breakfast to start your day right!