Rinse quinoa in a fine mesh strainer under cold water for 1 minute, swirling with your hand to remove the natural coating that tastes bitter.
1 cup quinoa
Combine rinsed quinoa and milk in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add vanilla extract when the liquid starts boiling, then reduce heat to low and cover.
1 cup quinoa, 2 cups milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Simmer covered for 15 minutes without lifting the lid to ensure even cooking with trapped steam.
1 cup quinoa, 2 cups milk
Remove from heat and let rest covered for 5 minutes so quinoa absorbs remaining moisture and firms up.
1 cup quinoa, 2 cups milk
Fluff quinoa gently with a fork, then stir in honey or maple syrup and optional chia seeds and cinnamon while the quinoa is still warm.
2 tablespoons honey, 1 tablespoon chia seeds, 0.25 teaspoon cinnamon
Divide quinoa into bowls and top with fresh mixed berries and toasted nuts just before serving to keep toppings fresh and crunchy.
1 cup mixed berries, 0.25 cup sliced almonds
