Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly easy bread recipe? Then look no further! This two-ingredient quinoa bread is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or when you crave a wholesome, delicious treat without spending hours in the kitchen. It's surprisingly flavorful, naturally gluten-free, and packed with protein – making it a fantastic addition to any healthy meal plan. Forget complicated recipes; this one is so simple, even beginner cooks will feel like bread-baking pros. Let's get started!
Ingredients: You'll Only Need Two!
- 1 cup cooked quinoa (about ½ cup uncooked)
- 2 large eggs
Instructions: Simple Steps to Delicious Bread
-
Prepare the Quinoa: Ensure your quinoa is fully cooked and cooled. You can cook it according to package directions; simply rinse it well before cooking for optimal results. Let it cool completely before proceeding to the next step. This prevents the eggs from cooking too quickly and ensures a smoother batter.
-
Whisk the Eggs: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk the eggs vigorously until they are light and frothy. This helps incorporate air into the batter, leading to a lighter and fluffier bread.
-
Combine Quinoa and Eggs: Gently fold the cooked quinoa into the whisked eggs. Don't overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can make the bread tough.
-
Pour and Bake: Lightly grease a small oven-safe ramekin or a small loaf pan (approximately 6-inch). Pour the quinoa mixture into the prepared pan.
-
Bake to Perfection: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your pan.
-
Cool and Serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for a few minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy. Enjoy your homemade quinoa bread!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Quinoa Bread
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing develops gluten (even in gluten-free recipes!), resulting in a tough bread. Gentle folding is key.
- Use fresh eggs: Fresh eggs will provide a better rise and texture.
- Adjust baking time: Oven temperatures vary, so keep an eye on your bread and adjust baking time as needed. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when it's done.
- Get creative with additions: While this recipe is wonderfully simple, you can enhance it with various additions. Consider adding herbs like rosemary or thyme, grated cheese, or even some finely chopped vegetables.
Variations: Beyond the Basics
- Sweet Quinoa Bread: Add a touch of sweetness with a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. You can also add some cinnamon or vanilla extract for extra flavor.
- Savory Quinoa Bread: Incorporate finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes, olives, or herbs for a savory twist. A sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before baking adds a nice salty note.
- Spiced Quinoa Bread: Experiment with different spices like cumin, coriander, or chili powder for a flavorful and aromatic bread.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: Approximately 8-10g
- Fiber: Approximately 3-4g
This delicious and easy quinoa bread is a perfect example of how healthy and homemade cooking doesn’t have to be complicated. It's a fantastic addition to your quick dinner ideas and a great way to incorporate more healthy meals into your diet. Enjoy!