Published: June 21, 2024 | Last Updated on: June 21, 2024
| by Hema
Introducing a delightful and nutritious twist on a classic dessert! Quinoa Kheer is a perfect choice for babies, toddlers, and kids, offering a blend of wholesome ingredients and delightful flavors. This recipe combines the superfood qualities of quinoa with the creamy richness of traditional kheer, making it a delicious and healthy option for your little ones. Whether you’re looking to introduce a new taste or ensure your child’s meal is packed with essential nutrients, Quinoa Kheer is the perfect solution.
Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, quinoa is an excellent alternative to rice, providing a health boost in every spoonful. This easy-to-make kheer recipe is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various dietary needs and preferences. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting and nutritious dessert that your kids will love, and you’ll feel great about serving. Let’s dive into this easy-to-make recipe that promises to be a hit with the whole family!
Health Benefits of Quinoa
Quinoa, often hailed as a superfood, is a fantastic addition to the diet of babies, toddlers, and kids. Here are some of the key health benefits it offers:
High Nutritional Value: Quinoa is packed with essential nutrients that are vital for the growth and development of children. It contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source, which is particularly important for growing bodies.
Rich in Fiber: Fiber is crucial for healthy digestion, and quinoa is a great source of it. Including quinoa in your child’s diet can help promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
Gluten-Free: For children with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, quinoa is a safe and nutritious grain alternative. It provides similar benefits to other grains without the gluten, making it suitable for gluten-free diets.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals: Quinoa is rich in vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins, magnesium, iron, potassium, and calcium. These nutrients support various bodily functions, such as energy production, bone health, and immune function.
High in Antioxidants: The antioxidants in quinoa, such as quercetin and kaempferol, help protect the body’s cells from damage by free radicals. This can contribute to overall health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases later in life.
Easy to Digest: Quinoa is relatively easy on the digestive system, making it an excellent first grain for babies. Its gentle nature helps ensure that young tummies can handle it without issues.
Supports Healthy Growth: The high protein content in quinoa supports muscle development and overall growth in children. Additionally, its iron content helps prevent anemia and supports brain development.
Energy Boost: The carbohydrates in quinoa provide a steady source of energy, which is essential for active kids. It helps keep them fueled for play and learning throughout the day.
Versatile and Kid-Friendly: Quinoa’s mild flavor and versatile nature make it easy to incorporate into various meals, from breakfast porridge to savory dishes and desserts like kheer. This versatility ensures that kids can enjoy its benefits without getting bored.
By including quinoa in your baby’s, toddler’s, or kid’s diet, you’re providing them with a powerhouse of nutrition that supports their overall health and development.
Recipe of Quinoa Kheer
Ingredients
Quinoa: ¼ cup
Water: ¼ cup
Almonds: 6
Cashews: 6
Powdered cardamom: ¼ tsp
Milk: 1¼ cups
Ghee/Clarified Butter: 1-2 tsp
Jaggery or Honey: 3 tbsp
Instructions
Rinse ¼ cup of quinoa in water, repeating 2-3 times until the water runs clear.
Soak the rinsed quinoa in water for 5 minutes and set aside.
For babies below one year, prepare formula milk and keep it ready. If using cow’s milk, boil it until frothy.
Measure the jaggery or honey and set aside. If using jaggery, melt it and strain to remove impurities.
Heat ghee in a small pressure cooker until it melts. Add the drained quinoa and sauté on low-medium flame for 5 minutes.
Add ¼ cup of milk and ¼ cup of water to the quinoa.
Pressure cook the mixture on medium flame for 3-4 whistles or until soft. Alternatively, cook in a saucepan with a lid for 10 minutes.
For babies below one year, use ½ cup of water instead of milk.
Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and mix well. Add the remaining 1 cup of milk (skip milk for babies below one year), powdered cardamom, saffron, and jaggery or honey.
Mix well and cook on low flame for 5 minutes until the kheer thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
In a small pan, heat a teaspoon of ghee and roast the cashews and almonds for a minute. Once the kheer is ready, add the ghee-roasted nuts.
For babies below one year, add the prepared formula milk once the kheer is warm and 2 teaspoons of nuts powder instead of whole nuts.
Quinoa Kheer is not only a delicious treat but also a powerhouse of nutrition, perfect for babies, toddlers, and kids. Its rich, creamy texture combined with the wholesome benefits of quinoa and the natural sweetness of jaggery, or honey makes it an ideal dessert for growing children. By incorporating this nutritious kheer into their diet, you’re ensuring they get essential vitamins, minerals, and proteins in a delightful way.
Give this recipe a try and watch your little ones enjoy every spoonful! If you found this recipe helpful, don’t forget to share it with other parents looking for healthy meal options for their children. For more nutritious and delicious recipes, subscribe to our blog and stay updated with our latest posts. Happy cooking!
Enjoy this nutritious and delicious Quinoa Kheer, perfect for babies, toddlers, and kids!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of milk for making Quinoa Kheer?
Yes, you can use any type of milk depending on your preference and your child’s dietary needs. Cow’s milk, formula milk, or even plant-based milk like almond or coconut milk can be used. If your child is below one year, it’s recommended to use formula milk instead of cow’s milk.
Is it necessary to soak quinoa before cooking it?
Soaking quinoa helps in removing the natural coating called saponin, which can make it taste bitter. While it’s not strictly necessary, soaking for a few minutes and rinsing thoroughly can improve the taste and texture of the kheer.
Can I substitute jaggery or honey with another sweetener?
Yes, you can use other natural sweeteners like maple syrup, date syrup, or even brown sugar if you prefer. Avoid honey for babies under one year due to the risk of botulism.
Nutritious Quinoa Kheer Recipe for Babies, Toddlers, and Kids
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Ingredients1/4 cup Quinoa1/4 cup Water6 Almonds6 Cashews1/4 tsp Powdered Cardamon1 1/4 cup Milk1-2 tbsp Ghee/clarified butter3 tbsp Jaggery or honey
InstructionsRinse ¼ cup of quinoa in water, repeating 2-3 times until the water runs clear. Soak the rinsed quinoa in water for 5 minutes and set aside. For babies below one year, prepare formula milk and keep it ready. If using cow’s milk, boil it until frothy. Measure the jaggery or honey and set aside.If using jaggery, melt it and strain to remove impurities. Heat ghee in a small pressure cooker until it melts. Add the drained quinoa and sauté on low-medium flame for 5 minutes.Add ¼ cup of milk and ¼ cup of water to the quinoa. Pressure cook the mixture on medium flame for 3-4 whistles or until soft. Alternatively, cook in a saucepan with a lid for 10 minutes. For babies below one year, use ½ cup of water instead of milk. Once the pressure is released, open the cooker and mix well. Add the remaining 1 cup of milk (skip milk for babies below one year), powdered cardamom, saffron, and jaggery or honey. Mix well and cook on low flame for 5 minutes until the kheer thickens slightly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. In a small pan, heat a teaspoon of ghee and roast the cashews and almonds for a minute. Once the kheer is ready, add the ghee-roasted nuts. For babies below one year, add the prepared formula milk once the kheer is warm and 2 teaspoons of nuts powder instead of whole nuts.
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