quinoa

There is a constant search for things to serve for breakfast.  With the weather turning colder, I've started looking for hot cereals to replace the old favorite of oats and creme of wheat.  What I found recently is Quinoa Flakes from the Quinoa Corporation. 

For those of you that are not familiar with quinoa, this is one of the ancient grains that have been recently reintroduced to the population.  Civilizations were growing quinoa in the Andes Mountains of South America over 5,000 years ago.  Since is contains no gluten, quinoa has also become popular grain in some gluten free diets.

Now the Quinoa Flakes can be used to make a simple porridge just like you would with oatmeal.  And just like oatmeal, it is very plain without a little dressing up.  However, unlike oatmeal, Quinoa Flakes have a very strong, woody taste.  I like the flavor, but my wife hates it.  Because of this strong flavor, it cannot be a direct substitute for oatmeal or creme of wheat. 

After the initial taste test, I dressed it up with a little brown sugar and molasses.  My oldest daughter ran through three bowls.  She would have gone for a fourth, but the pot was empty.

Now I am planning to buy this again, but I recommend it with a caution.  Not everyone will like quinoa's strong flavors.