GOLDEN GINGER QUINOA BREAKFAST BOWL

Golden Ginger Quinoa Breakfast Bowl topped with coconut yogurt, walnut pieces, and extra raisins.

Quinoa isn't just for dinner — it also makes a great protein-rich, gluten-free breakfast option.  This version is a little savoury, a little sweet, and 100% nutritious & delicious!

Here I have also added hemp, flax, and chia seeds for extra protein, fibre, minerals, and those brain-boosting omega 3s! Turmeric and other warming spices deliver wonderful flavour and antioxidants galore.

The Scoop on Quinoa

Many people think quinoa is a grain.  However, it is actually a “pseudograin” — a gluten-free seed with grain-like characteristics — that is safe for individuals with Celiac disease and gluten sensitivity.  It’s rich in antioxidants, fibre, and vitamins & minerals including magnesium, zinc, & B vitamins. Quinoa is one of the few plant foods with all 9 essential amino acids.

Of note, quinoa does contain phytic acid, a plant-based compound found in nuts, seeds, and beans/legumes that can impair the absorption of minerals including iron, zinc and calcium. Fortunately, washing your quinoa thoroughly can significantly reduce the phytic acid content.

Ginger & Turmeric

Ginger and turmeric are in the same plant family, Zingiberaceae, and both have been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for millennia.

Turmeric's main active ingredient is curcumin.  This potent phytochemical has amazing anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, wound-healing, and cognitive and mood-enhancing benefits.  If you are new to turmeric, it is better to start with less and build-up gradually to see how you tolerate it and to adjust to the somewhat pungent flavour.  Remember that natural medicines and remedies have side effects, too, and consider discussing with your health care provider.  Also note that turmeric is used as a colouring agent and can stain your clothes!

Ginger has a fresh, fragrant and slightly peppery taste.  It is well-recognized as having anti-inflammatory, anti-nausea, analgesic and pro-digestive benefits.  Research also suggests that consumption of ginger can boost immunity and reduce the risk of obesity, diabetes, stroke and heart disease.

Golden Ginger Quinoa Recipe

Ingredients for 4 servings:

• 3/4 cup uncooked gluten-free quinoa

• 1 can (1 1/2 cups) coconut milk (full-fat or light)

• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond or nut-free milk

• 2 Tbsp Nuzest Clean Lean Just Natural protein powder or Further Food collagen (optional)

• 2 Tbsp white chia seeds

• 1 Tbsp grated peeled fresh ginger

• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp ground cardamom

• 1/4 tsp sea salt

• pinch each of nutmeg and black pepper

• 2 Tbsp Eaton Hemp hemp hearts or flaxseed meal (optional)

• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract

• Lakanto sugar-free monk fruit, pure stevia, raw honey (non-vegan) or maple syrup, adjusted to taste (optional)

• 1/4 cup raisins (optional)

• optional toppings: Greek or dairy-free yogurt, nuts, seeds and/or nut butter, toasted coconut flakes, dried or fresh fruit, nondairy milk, honey or maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Wash the quinoa. To do this, place the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer sitting in a bowl. Cover with water and gently rub the grains together with your hands for 30 seconds. Rinse and drain. Repeat this process 2 more times.

2. Put the rinsed quinoa, coconut milk, almond milk, protein powder, chia seeds, turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, ginger, salt, nutmeg, and pepper in a medium saucepan and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes with occasional stirring until most of the liquid has been absorbed.

3. Remove from heat and stir in hemp or flaxseed meal, vanilla, and raisins. Sweeten to taste.

4. Serve warm or chilled with your favourite toppings.

Golden Ginger Quinoa can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.

This recipe was originally published on Dec 2, 2017.