How to Make a Breakfast Pudding with Ancient Grains

Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day. And why not? It kicks off our day with energy, nutrients, and a good mood, especially if the meal is not just delicious but also great for our health. Today, let’s talk about a breakfast option that ticks all these boxes – a breakfast pudding made with ancient grains.

Ancient grains have been around for thousands of years and include varieties like quinoa, amaranth, and millet. These grains are minimally processed, pack in a ton of nutrients, and can be a great addition to your breakfast in the form of a creamy, delicious pudding.

Don’t let the term “ancient” fool you; this breakfast pudding recipe is modern, easy, and can be a game-changer for your morning routine. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients:

1/2 cup of mixed ancient grains (quinoa, amaranth, millet)
2 cups of milk (dairy or plant-based)
1 banana, mashed
2 tablespoons of honey or maple syrup
A pinch of salt
1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Toppings of your choice (fruits, nuts, seeds, etc.)

Instructions:

Preparation of Grains:
First things first, rinse your ancient grains under running water to remove any dust or impurities. Since we’re using a mix, the cooking time might vary for each, but don’t worry, this will only add to the texture of your pudding.
Cook the Grains:
In a medium-sized pot, combine the rinsed grains with 2 cups of milk. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent the grains from sticking to the bottom. Cook until the grains are soft and the mixture has thickened, which should take about 20-25 minutes.
Flavor the Pudding:
Once the grains are cooked, add the mashed banana, honey (or maple syrup), a pinch of salt, and the vanilla extract. Stir everything well to combine. The banana and honey/maple syrup naturally sweeten the pudding, making it delightful without any refined sugars.
Cool Down:
Let the pudding cool for a few minutes. It will continue to thicken as it cools, transforming into a creamy texture that’s just perfect for a pudding.
Personalize Your Pudding:
Here’s where you can get creative. Serve the pudding in bowls and add your favorite toppings. Fresh fruits like berries, sliced bananas, or peaches add a refreshing burst of flavor. You can also add a crunch with nuts or seeds. If you’re feeling adventurous, a dollop of peanut butter or a sprinkle of cocoa powder can turn your breakfast into a decadent treat.
Enjoy!:
Your breakfast pudding is now ready to be enjoyed! This dish not only tastes great but is also packed with protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients, making it a power-packed start to your day.

Tips:

Make Ahead: This pudding can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just add a little milk when reheating to bring it back to the desired consistency.
Experiment with Grains: Feel free to explore and find your favorite combination of ancient grains. Each grain has its unique flavor and nutritional profile.
Dairy-Free Version: If you’re avoiding dairy, any plant-based milk (almond, coconut, oat) will work great in this recipe.

Why Ancient Grains?

You might wonder why bother with ancient grains when oats or other common options are readily available. The answer lies in their nutrition profile and versatility. Ancient grains are loaded with proteins, fibers, vitamins, and minerals. They’re less processed, which means your body gets more of the good stuff. Moreover, they add a variety of textures and flavors to your meals, making your breakfast not only healthy but also interesting.

Conclusion

Starting your day with a nutrient-packed, flavorful breakfast like our ancient grains pudding can set a positive tone for the rest of your day. It’s a delightful way to bring age-old nutrition to your modern table. Not to mention, it’s easy to make, customizable according to your preferences, and incredibly satisfying.

Remember, cooking is not just about following recipes to the letter. It’s about experimenting, tasting, and making adjustments to suit your palate. So, grab your grains, and get creative! Your breakfast routine is about to get a delicious upgrade. Enjoy!