You guys, it was COLD and RAINY in Colorado the other day and I didn’t even know what to do with myself…besides diving into a bowl of this warm goodness. Luckily, the rain doesn’t last long in Colorado and the sun was out by noon, but that morning was in need of all the winter cozies.
With that cold and damp weather came the inspiration for this bowl though, so I would say that was a success. Oh, and the massive quantity of apples that I have been foraging lately was definitely providing some inspiration as well.
I am really obsessed with the spices that are used in this because they are warming and grounding, which is perfect in cooler weather. Plus they have amazing properties as well. For instance, cinnamon is great for balancing blood sugar, decreasing sugar cravings and is loaded with antioxidants! Cardamom is a warming spice great for decreasing chest congestion, digestion, and detoxification. Nutmeg is similar to cardamom in its benefits with digestion and detoxification properties. It also relieves pain and strengthens cognitive function, along with much more!
Plus all of these spices taste amazing together and provide so much nourishment to the soul!
- 1 cup cooked quinoa
- ¼ cup full fat coconut milk
- 1 apple
- 1 tbsp coconut oil
- ½ tsp cardamom
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- dash of nutmeg
- himalayan pink sea salt
- optional: honey or maple syrup
- Cook quinoa per instructions on package (Make extra to have for other meals if you are prepping!)
- Chop apple into desired shapes.
- Heat 1 tbsp coconut oil in a pan and place apple in with the coconut oil.
- Then sprinkle ¼ tsp cardamom, 1 tsp cinnamon, a dash of nutmeg, and a little bit of sea salt onto the apple slices.
- Allow this to cook on low heat, covering, and stirring occasionally until soft.
- In a separate pan, combine quinoa, coconut milk, ¼ tsp cardamom, 1 tsp nutmeg, a dash of nutmeg, sea salt, and vanilla extract.
- Warm the quinoa mixture until thoroughly combined.
- Place in a bowl and top with cooked apples and some chopped almonds!
Blair is a Nutrition Consultant and Natural Chef with a passion for helping others achieve optimal health through a holistic approach that focuses on body, mind, and spirit. 
