12 Apr 2025
Cook time 25 min
Prep time 5 min
Ingredients:
3 cups milk (1% fat)
1/2 cup quinoa
2 tbsp sugar
1 tsp cardamom
1 dash salt
1/3 cup raisins
1 tbsp almonds
1 tbsp pistachio nuts
Creamy cardamom & raisin quinoa pudding is a delightful and nutritious dessert that combines the unique texture of quinoa with the fragrant spice of cardamom and the sweetness of raisins. This recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy a satisfying and healthy treat.
Instructions:
1. Rinse the Quinoa:
Start by thoroughly rinsing the quinoa under cold running water using a fine-mesh strainer. This helps to remove any bitterness.
2. Cook the Quinoa:
In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 1 1/2 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the water is fully absorbed.
3. Add Milk and Sweeteners:
Once the quinoa is cooked, add the 3 cups of milk to the saucepan. Stir in the 2 tablespoons of sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cardamom, and a dash of salt.
4. Simmer and Thicken:
Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the quinoa from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan. Allow it to simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the mixture has thickened to a pudding-like consistency.
5. Add Raisins:
Stir in the 1/3 cup of raisins and continue to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the raisins to plump and soften.
6. Toast the Nuts (Optional):
While the pudding is simmering, you can toast the almonds and pistachio nuts to enhance their flavor (optional step). To do this, heat a small skillet over medium heat. Add the slivered almonds and chopped pistachio nuts, and toast them for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until they are golden and fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.
7. Final Steps:
Once the pudding has reached your desired consistency, remove it from heat. If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add a little more milk.
8. Serve:
Scoop the creamy quinoa pudding into individual serving bowls. Garnish with the toasted almonds and pistachio nuts.
9. Enjoy:
Serve warm or chilled, depending on your preference. This creamy cardamom and raisin quinoa pudding can be enjoyed as a comforting dessert or a sweet breakfast treat.
Tips:
- Rinse the quinoa thoroughly under cold water to remove the natural coating called saponin, which can make it taste bitter.
- You can substitute almond or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Toast the quinoa in a dry pan for a few minutes before cooking to enhance its nutty flavor.
- Stir the pudding frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- For added flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract.
Creamy cardamom & raisin quinoa pudding is a versatile and easy-to-make dessert that satisfies the sweet tooth while offering health benefits from quinoa and nuts. Enjoy this pudding as a delightful end to your meal or a nutritious snack any time of the day.