Tired of the same old oatmeal? Shake up your morning routine with this incredibly comforting and delicious Maple Cinnamon Breakfast Quinoa! It’s like a warm hug in a bowl, packed with plant-based protein and fiber to keep you energized all morning. The natural sweetness of maple and banana combined with a hint of cinnamon creates a perfectly balanced, satisfying, and surprisingly simple breakfast.
Ingredients
• 1 cup / 170g quinoa, rinsed
• 2–2.5 cups / 480-600ml water
• 1 tsp / 5ml coconut oil
• 2/3 cup / 160ml soy milk, or other plant-based milk
• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tbsp / 30ml pure maple syrup
• 2 medium bananas, sliced
Instructions
1. Combine the rinsed quinoa and water in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
3. Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it stand, still covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the quinoa to steam and become fluffy.
4. Uncover and fluff the quinoa gently with a fork.
5. Stir in the coconut oil, soy milk, cinnamon, and maple syrup until well combined and creamy.
6. Serve warm, topped with fresh banana slices.
Nutritional Information
• Per 1 cup serving
• Calories: 257
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 13g
• Sodium: 28mg
Pro Tips
• For a richer, nuttier flavor, toast the dry, rinsed quinoa in the saucepan for 2-3 minutes over medium heat before adding the water.
• This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Cook a large batch of the quinoa and store it in the fridge. In the morning, simply reheat a portion with the milk and mix-ins.
• Boost the protein and healthy fats by adding a tablespoon of chia seeds, ground flax, or a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans before serving.
FAQ
Q: How can I add more plant-based protein to this breakfast quinoa
A: To easily boost the protein, stir in a tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed when you add the milk. You can also top your bowl with a handful of chopped walnuts, pecans, or a scoop of your favorite plant-based protein powder for an extra powerful start to your day.
Q: Can I use a different plant-based milk instead of soy milk
A: Absolutely. This recipe is very versatile. Feel free to substitute soy milk with any other plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk (from a carton). The choice will slightly alter the flavor and creaminess, but it will be equally delicious.
Q: Is this breakfast quinoa suitable for vegetarian meal prep
A: Yes, this recipe is perfect for meal prep. Cook a large batch of the plain quinoa and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Each morning, simply scoop out a serving, add the milk, maple syrup, and cinnamon, and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before adding your fresh toppings.
Q: Are there other vegetarian sweeteners I can use besides maple syrup
A: Certainly. If you don’t have maple syrup or prefer a different flavor, you can use agave nectar or date syrup as a 1:1 substitute. For a lower-sugar option, you can mash one of the bananas and stir it in with the milk to add natural sweetness.
