Have you tried quinoa (pronounced keen-wha) yet? I hadn’t until recently. I kept seeing it presented as the “healthiest grain” in my husband’s running magazines and did a little digging. I found that this is a perfect grain for children as it provides fiber, calcium, iron, folate, amino acids, protein and best of all it’s easily digestible!

Quinoa can be introduced to baby as early as 8 months. It is usually found in the bulk “health food” sections of many grocery stores. Cooking quinoa is similar to cooking rice. Add 1 cup of quinoa to 2 cups of boiling water. Cover and lower heat to a simmer. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes until soft.

I will be doing a little more research and creating more recipes so check back for some more quinoa creations!

although this recipe is stated to be for the baby/toddler it certainly does not count you out. A similar taste to rice pudding (and a lot healthier) double this recipe for the entire family!

Berries and Quinoa Cereal {stage 3 +} makes 1 to 2 servings

• 1/3 cup of milk (breast milk can be substituted)
• 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup of fresh ripe berries (organic if possible, berries are on the “dirty dozen” list of foods to buy organic)
• 1 tsp of brown sugar or sweetener of your choice
• 1/4 cinnamon
• 1/4 vanilla extract

Combine all ingredients  in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a low simmer and stir. Simmer for 5 minutes until mixture is warmed through and all ingredients are combined.

Serve warm. Refrigerate any remaining for up to 3 days.