What's just as good a hug on a cold almost-winter's day? It had better be something good right? Well today, I adapted a rice pudding recipe and turned it into a Quinoa Pudding. I whipped it up for Oma as an afternoon snack, and afternoon excitement. It did take a little longer than anticipated though, so make sure you leave at least an hour to create this little gem.
I've got a few modifications below to suit differing requirements and the sweetness can easily be adjusted to taste as well.
The warm and fuzzy benefits are that it's just that, warming, a big hug, it's a lovely consistency for someone with swallowing difficulties and it's easy to share and accompany with a cuppa.
The sciencey stuff behind this one is that it's full of protein and fibre which is super important for our elders, maintaining their muscle mass, and keeping them regular. It's also a good snack for someone living with diabetes, as it's lower in carbohydrates, helping to lower release of insulin, an easier uptake of glucose in the cells and therefore less circulating blood glucose. And being full of protein, a great filling snack.
So down to business, here is the recipe. As I said, yo'll need a bit of time to dedicate to this one, and expect to stay near the stove and it's a bit needy in the stirring department. Make sure you enjoy eating this one with your cared one, pour a cuppa and maybe bring out a photo album to have a look through to create some conversation.
Ingredients
• 1 cup quinoa (rinsed)
• 4 cups of whole milk
• 1/3 cup of brown sugar or maple syrup or your alternative of choice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt
• cinnamon or nutmeg to garnish
Method
• rinse quinoa well in a mesh sieve
• add all ingredients to a saucepan and turn med-high and bring to the boil
• stir occasionally, it may take up to 10 minutes to start boiling
• once it's boiling, turn to a low heat and simmer with the lid on for at least 45 minutes
• stirring every 5 minutes and checking consistency
• the pudding is ready when the contents becomes thick and together but slides off the spoon together (like a cake batter, not like mashed potato-that's too far)
• leave to cool for a few minutes and then serve with a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg (Oma loves nutmeg)
Modifications
> increase or decrease sugar and use alternatives as desired
> I haven't tried it with plant based milk, so I'm not sure about a lactose free version (standby I will experiment)
> cinnamon or nutmeg can be added during cooking or after
> berries, banana, sultanas or other fruits can be added on top or mixed through