Quinoa Pudding

To prepare a delicious quinoa pudding, we start by ensuring that the quinoa grains are perfectly clean. So, we take a strainer in which we put the quinoa. Then, we place the strainer in a larger bowl and add enough water to wash the grains. It is important to use our fingers or a wooden spoon to stir the quinoa, ensuring that all the grains are well washed. We notice that the water becomes cloudy, and this is due to a substance called saponin, which is found on the outside of the quinoa grains. This substance can be harmful, so we need to discard the cloudy water. We repeat this operation 2-3 times until the water becomes clear, a sign that the quinoa is clean.

After we finish washing the quinoa, we transfer it to a pot along with 500 ml of water and put it on the heat. We let it boil until all the water is absorbed, and the quinoa becomes fluffy. In another pot, we prepare a delicious mixture of milk, salt, sugar, cinnamon stick, and lemon zest. We bring this mixture to a boil, and when it starts to foam, we turn off the heat and remove the cinnamon stick, discarding it.

Now, we pour the boiled milk over the quinoa and heat it again, adding raisins or other preferred dried fruits. We stir constantly so that the pudding thickens evenly for about 5-7 minutes. It is essential to stir more frequently towards the end of cooking to prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

When the pudding reaches the desired consistency, we take it off the heat and add the butter, stirring well until it melts completely. Then, we incorporate the vanilla essence, which will give a tempting aroma to our dish. After we finish preparing the pudding, we can let it cool, or we can arrange it in cups or individual molds and refrigerate it.

Quinoa pudding can be served in various ways: either with whipped cream and strawberry syrup, or with whipped cream and fresh fruits, or simply sprinkled with cinnamon. It is a simple and healthy dessert, perfect for hot summer days, bringing a touch of freshness and joy in every spoonful. Enjoy this delicacy and savor the nutritional benefits of quinoa!