Whole Grains are already one of the most talked about ingredients of 2023, and going into 2024, they’re sure to continue on their winning streak.
Aside from being filling, easily accessible and wildly versatile, they also offer a range of health benefits, setting them apart from refined grains that lose valuable nutrients during the refining process. Every whole grain kernel comprises three essential parts: the bran, germ, and endosperm. Each of these components holds nutrients that contribute to well-being. Naturally, adding grains to your breakfast table is a quick and easy way to add these benefits to your life.
Here’s a simple and enjoyable way to kickstart your morning: Take any leftover cooked grains like brown rice, quinoa, or bulgur wheat. If you don’t have any, consider cooking a big batch over the weekend. Now, simmer these grains with some milk or a milk alternative, add water, and a pinch of kosher salt. Let it all cook until it becomes thick and creamy. Finally, load it up with your favourite sweet or savoury toppings. Voilà, you’ve got yourself a hearty and heart-healthy breakfast porridge, but no need to stop there. With some creativity, you can whip up a wide range of variations and flavours for a breakfast that’s both nutritious and delicious.
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Berry Bowl
This delightful combination features quinoa as the base, topped with a medley of fresh berries, such as blueberries and strawberries. To make this beryylicious treat, simply cook quinoa, toss in the berries, and drizzle with a touch of maple syrup. This bowl provides a rich source of antioxidants, fibre, and essential vitamins, offering a vibrant start to your morning while catering to vegan preferences.
Tropical Fruit Bowl
Featuring coconut milk, mango chunks, kiwi slices, and chia seeds over a base of barley, this bowl is a dairy-free option packed with fruity flavours. To make this refreshing creation, cook the barley till tender, add coconut milk, and top it with tropical fruits and chia seeds. This bowl provides a breakfast packed with vitamins, minerals, and a tropical kick to start your day.
Congee
This light and soothing bowl features brown rice cooked to a porridge-like consistency, topped with a variety of garnishes such as sliced green onions, shredded chicken or egg, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. To create this comforting dish, simmer rice in water until it reaches a smooth and creamy texture, then garnish as desired. Chinese congee is easy on the stomach, making it an ideal choice for a gentle start to the day. Rich in carbohydrates and protein, this bowl provides sustained energy and warmth to your breakfast.
Chickpea Curry Bowl
For a hearty savoury option, combine brown rice with spiced chickpeas, sauteed vegetables, and a dollop of vegan yoghurt, for a delicious, naturally vegan breakfast. Cook the brown rice, spice up chickpeas and vegetables, then assemble with a spoonful of vegan yoghurt. Offering a hearty mix of protein and fibre, this bowl embraces Indian-inspired goodness while remaining entirely vegan.
Oats Upma
This hearty creation blends oats with a variety of everyday spices, vegetables, and a very tadka for flavour. To prepare, sauté the oats with spices, add vegetables, and garnish with a tadka of mustard seeds, curry leaves, garlic and red chilli. This bowl is gluten-free, rich in fibre, and offers a unique twist to your breakfast routine with bold Indian flavours.
Pulihora
A staple South Indian meal, this tamarind rice can make for a delicious breakfast with some minor adjustments. Mix tamarind-infused barnyard millet with peanuts and curry leaves for a breakfast bowl that is tangy and healthy. Cook the barnyard millet with tamarind paste, add peanuts and curry leaves for a burst of flavour.
With these simple grain bowk breakfasts you’re sure to start the day, and the year off on the right note.
