4tablespoonmaple syrupyou can use agave syrup or date syrup
4tablespoonunsweetened, raw cacao powder
1teaspoonpure vanilla extract
1pinch of salt
Toppings (optional)
1sliced bananaoptional
1sliced plumoptional
4squares vegan dark chocolateoptional
2tablespoonvegan dark chocolate chipsoptional
Instructions
Place your quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer. Using your fingers, rinse it well under fresh, cool water. Drain it. Heat a small saucepan on medium-high heat. Add rinsed, drained quinoa, stirring frequently. Let the water evaporate and lightly toast for 3 minutes. This will enhance its nutty flavor.
Add non-dairy milk of choice and a pinch of salt to toasted quinoa seeds. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, uncovered for 12-15 minutes, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon. If it stops simmering, increase the heat to medium-low. Be careful and don't let the milk spill over. Adjust the stove temperature to maintain that gentle bubbling.
Once the liquid is absorbed and the quinoa is soft, turn off the heat and let it sit covered for 3-5 minutes.
Add raw cacao powder, maple syrup, and vanilla extract into the cooked quinoa and stir well to combine. Taste and adjust the sweetness desired. Add more milk if you prefer the texture thinner. Also, add an additional tablespoon of maple syrup or cacao powder for a more intense and sweeter chocolate flavor.
Serve it topped with squares of vegan dark chocolate, banana slices, and fresh or frozen berries. I topped mine with red currants, plums, banana slices, dark chocolate squares, and chocolate chips (extreme chocolate lover here). It's best to be eaten while still warm and fresh. Keep any leftovers (cooled, stored in an airtight container) in the fridge for2-3 days. Reheat with additional plant-based milk in a small saucepan and enjoy.
Notes
If your quinoa bowl is not sweet enough to suit your taste just add more maple syrup or any sweetener of choice.
Add additional milk if you prefer your quinoa porridge to be thinner and no so thick.
For storing: Allow the quinoa to cool completely before storing it in an airtight meal prep container. Keep it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. Add the desired toppings right before serving. You can eat it cold or warm. Reheat with additional plant-based milk in a small saucepan and enjoy.