Quinoa Kheer is a creamy dessert made with quinoa, milk and sugar arnished with nuts. It's different from regular rice kheer and feels lighter. Its subtle sweetness makes it easy to enjoy without feeling too heavy on stomach. Recipe included with step by step pictures.

Quinoa Kheer is also a nice treat if you want healthier version of kheer. Quinoa has protein and fiber so it doesn't feel as heavy as rice kheer. It goes well with warm chai or can be eaten on its own after a meal. It's simple but still comforting and tasty, it can also be served chilled in summer.

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About Quinoa Kheer

Quinoa Kheer is basically a healthier twist on the traditional rice kheer. The quinoa gives little bite and nutty texture which is different from usual creamy rice version. Milk makes it smooth and rich, and just a little cardamom and saffron gives nice aroma. It's a must try at home.

This recipe comes from modern Indian desserts where I try to keep it healthy but not lose the taste. I like full cream milk because it makes it rich, but almond milk works fine if you want something lighter. Adding nuts gives a little crunch and looks nice too.

You can make it thick or thin, depends on what you like. Some people like it like rabri, very thick, others like pourable. I usually keep it little thick so it sticks to spoon nicely. Its simple to tweak sugar or nuts amount to suit your taste. Cooking slowly also helps the flavors mix better and gives a nicer aroma.

I make it mostly on weekends when I get time to slow cook quinoa. It has light texture makes it easy to enjoy for kids and elders too.

Quinoa Kheer Ingredients

• Quinoa - I use this as main ingredient. Gives nutty flavor and adds protein. Sometimes I use soaked millet instead.
• Ghee - I used ghee for sautéing. Gives light aroma and richness. Butter can work too.
• Milk - I used it to make kheer creamy. Almond or soy milk works too if want lighter version.
• Sugar - I add this for sweetness. Balances flavors. Jaggery also works if you want healthier.
• Saffron strands - I use this for aroma, flavor and color.
• Cardamom powder - I add this for flavor. Gives subtle spice.
• Pistachios chopped - I use these to garnish. Gives crunch and looks nice. Almonds or cashews can work too.

Why This Recipe Works

• It is a simple dessert made using very few ingredients.
• Quinoa make this kheer filling and nutritious.
• Slow cooking gives creamy texture without lumps.
• You can just easily adjust sweetness and thickness.
• This recipe works for both warm and chilled serving.

Similar Recipes

• Mango Kheer
• Bread Kheer
• Millet kheer
• Rice Kheer
• Paneer Kheer

How to make Quinoa Kheer Step by Step

1.Measure quinoa,rinse it in water atleast twice then soak in water for at least 15 minutes.

2.Drain and set aside. Heat ghee in a pressure cooker, add drained quinoa.

3.Saute for 3-5 minutes in low flame until a nutty flavour comes. Now add ¼ cup milk and ¼ cup water.

4.Add a spoon to it to avoid milk overflowing while pressure cooking. Pressure cook for 2-3 whistles.

5.Now remove the spoon and check quinoa, it will be soft. Now add remaining ¾ cup milk.

6.Add saffron, let it boil for a 2 minutes or until it starts to thicken.

7.Now add sugar and let it cook for 5 minutes in low flame.

8.Add cardamom powder and let it cook for 2 minutes,finally garnish with chopped pistachios.

Serve chilled.

Expert Tips

• Soak quinoa - I just rinse and soak the quinoa for least 15 minutes. Cooks faster and tastes better.
• Simmer slowly - I cook in low flame so that the milk thickens slowly and don't stick to the bottom.
• Adjust thickness - If kheer is very thick, I just add little warm extra milk while serving.
• Use full cream milk - I just use full cream milk to make the kheer rich and creamy. Plant milk works but will be lighter.
• Garnish last - I always add nuts at end so they stay crunchy and looks nice. You can use any of your choice.

Serving and Storage

Serve it hot with some extra chopped nuts on top. You can eat cold too, nice chilled. Goes well after lunch or light dessert with meal. Leftover kheer can keep in fridge for 1-2 days. I usually warm it low flame before eating and add splash milk if it becomes too thick.

FAQS

1.Can I skip saffron in this kheer?

Yes you can skip it completely. Cardamom alone is enough to give good flavor.

2.Can I make in advance?

You can make it few hours before serving and refrigerate it. Add little milk before serving as it thicken over time.

3.Why is my kheer too thick?

It absorb milk as it sits. Just add boiled milk and mix well to fix this.

4.Can I use jaggery?

Yes jaggery work well. Add it after quinoa is cooked and keep flame low.

5.Can I make this vegan?

You can just use almond milk or coconut milk. Taste will change but it still comes out good.

If you have any more questions about this Quinoa Kheer Recipe do mail me at sharmispassions@gmail.com. In addition, follow me on Instagram, Facebook,  Pinterest, Youtube and Twitter .

Tried this Quinoa Kheer Recipe? Do let me know how you liked it. Also tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and hash tag it on #sharmispassions.

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Quinoa Upma is a healthy quick dish with simple steps and it is good option when you want something light yet filling. You can make it easily for busy mornings. It has mild spice taste and it feels very comforting to eat. This recipe is good for adults and kids also and you can have it any time of the day.

It has a good source of protein and fibre, so it keeps you full for long time. It is also gluten free and easy to digest for most people. You can add quinoa instead of rava which makes this upma healthier. This recipe has become a good choice when you want something simple and nutritious.

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About Quinoa Upma

Quinoa Upma is prepared similar to regular rava upma but quinoa replaces rava here. The cooking method is almost same but the texture is little different. It turns soft and fluffy when it is cooked properly. It absorbs all the tempering flavors very nicely in this recipe. This recipe does not need much planning or any special ingredients.

This recipe has mild and balanced taste. You can include it often in your meal rotation. This recipe feels little different but still familiar in taste. You can make it for breakfast or even for dinner also. Once you get used to quinoa cooking, this recipe becomes very regular at home.

You can just add beans, capsicum or even a handful of peanuts if you like. Some people like to add grated coconut at the end also. Lemon juice can be added for slight tangy taste. When you see small tail in quinoa, it means it has cooked properly. Cooking in low flame helps to get good texture always.

Quinoa is pronouced as 'keenwah' a super healthy grain which has a crunchy chewy texture which  I loved the most.I usually make this quinoa upma on weekdays when I want quick breakfast. Sometimes I pack it for lunch also as it stays good for few hours.

Quinoa Upma Ingredients

• Quinoa - I have used this as the main base for the upma. It gives good protein and keeps you full longer. You can replace with millets also if you like.
• Onion - I have used chopped onion for sweetness and flavor. It balances the mild taste of quinoa. You can skip if you dont like onion.
• Carrot - I added carrot for color and slight crunch. It also adds little sweetness. You can use beans instead.
• Green peas - I used peas for soft texture and freshness. This goes well with quinoa. You can also use frozen peas.
• Green chilli - I use for mild spice in the upma. You can reduce or increase as per taste. Pepper can be used instead.
• Mustard seeds - I have used this for tempering. It gives light crunch and aroma. You can use cumin also.
• Urad dal - This adds crispness to the tempering. It gives nice bite while eating. Chana dal can be used instead.
• Curry leaves - I used curry leaves for flavor. It gives that typical South Indian taste. Fresh is always better.
• Oil - I used regular cooking oil for tempering, it helps in cooking and flavor. 

Similar Recipes

• Bread Upma
• Pori Upma
• Tomato Quinoa
• How to cook quinoa
• Millet upma

How to make Quinoa Upma Step by Step

1.Measure quinoa, rinse it in water at least twice then soak in water for at least 15 minutes.

2.Drain water and set the quinoa aside. Heat oil in a pan add the item listed under 'to temper', then add onion and saute for 2 minutes until it becomes transparent.

3.Then add carrot and peas, saute for a minute then add quinoa. Add required salt.

4.Saute for a minute, then add water.

5.Let it come to a boil, then cook covered for at least 15-20 minutes in lowest flame, Check after 15 minutes then proceed further if needed.

6.Fluff it up, the grain will be seen transparent with a tiny tail, that ensure proper cooking. Switch off.

Serve hot or warm.

Expert Tips

• Washing - I make sure to wash quinoa at least twice before cooking. It helps to remove bitterness and improves taste. I usually soak it also if I have time.
• Cooking flame - I cook the quinoa upma in low flame. High flame may burn the bottom and quinoa may not cook evenly. Try not to hurry this step.
• Water ratio -I just add correct amount of , too much water will make it mushy and less water will keep it hard.
• Vegetable cutting - I cut vegetables small so that they cook evenly. Big pieces may remain uncooked and spoil texture.
• Resting time - Once cooked, let it rest for few minutes before fluffing. This helps quinoa settle and taste better.

Serving and Storage

Serve quinoa upma hot with coconut chutney or plain. It also tastes good with a little pickle on side. You can drizzle few drops of ghee on top if you like. Store leftover in fridge and use within a day. Reheat with little water before serving.

FAQS

1.Can I skip soaking quinoa?

Yes you can skip soaking, but cooking time may increase little. Washing is must though.

2.Why quinoa feels little crunchy?

Quinoa always has slight bite even after cooking. It is normal texture and not undercooked.

3.Can I add more vegetables?

Yes you can add any veggies like beans, capsicum or corn, works well with most vegetables.

4.Can I make this ahead?

You can make it few hours before and reheat. It tastes best when fresh though.

5.Is quinoa upma good for weight loss?

It is light and filling, so it helps in portion control. Just avoid adding too much oil.

If you have any more questions about this Quinoa Upma Recipe do mail me at sharmispassions@gmail.com. In addition, follow me on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest ,Youtube and Twitter .

Tried this Quinoa Upma Recipe? Do let me know how you liked it. Also tag us on Instagram @sharmispassions and hash tag it on #sharmispassions.

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