Quinoa Pudding

[laceyjane26]

1 cup quinoa, cleaned (6 oz)
6 cups water
2 eggs
2 egg whites
1 cup nonfat milk
2 tablespoons dry non-fat powdered milk or protein powder
1 teaspoon vanilla
3/4 cup sugar(can use honey,stevia, agave, or splenda)
1 tablespoon sugar
1/8 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup slivered almond or chopped almonds (can use whole wheat flour instead)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
cooking spray


Place quinoa in a bowl of water. Begin the cleaning by rubbing the grain together between your hands. Drain and repeat several times. You will know the quinoa is clean when the water is no longer milky after rubbing. This step is essential for removing the bitter layer that surrounds the grain.
Bring quinoa and 6 cups water to a boil in a large saucepan. Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until grains are translucent, 13 to 15 minutes. Drain well.
Preheat oven to 350°F.
To measure milk, place powdered milk in measuring cup and add milk to one cup. Stir together to dissolve milk powder. Whisk together eggs, egg whites, milk, vanilla, 3/4 cup sugar, and salt in a large bowl until just combined. Mix in quinoa, nuts. Pour into a 9-inch square baking pan prepared with a coat of cooking spray.
Stir together cinnamon and remaining tablespoon sugar and sprinkle over top of pudding. Bake until a knife inserted in center comes out clean, around 40 minutes.
Serve warm or at room temperature.