High Protein Quinoa Bread is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying delicious baked goods. This bread is not only nutritious but also gluten-free, thanks to the quinoa and whole wheat flour. Its wholesome ingredients come together to create a loaf that is soft, yet slightly nutty in flavor, making it perfect for sandwiches, toast, or simply enjoyed on its own. Whether you’re a health enthusiast or just looking for a tasty bread option, this recipe will satisfy your cravings while keeping you nourished.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Servings: 8 slices
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: 190
- Protein: 8 grams
- Carbohydrates: 30 grams
- Fat: 6 grams
- Fiber: 4 grams
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Sodium: 180 mg
Why Make This High Protein Quinoa Bread
This High Protein Quinoa Bread is an excellent addition to your diet because it’s packed with nutrients. Quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids, making it particularly beneficial for those on plant-based diets. The use of whole wheat flour offers additional fiber and nutrients, supporting digestion and heart health. Additionally, the option of adding protein powder can help you further increase your protein intake, making this bread perfect for athletes, health-conscious individuals, or anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.
How to Make High Protein Quinoa Bread
Making High Protein Quinoa Bread is straightforward and can be accomplished with minimal ingredients. The process includes cooking quinoa, mixing wet and dry ingredients, and baking your bread to perfection. Follow along step-by-step for a delicious result!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup protein powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup milk or non-dairy alternative
- 2 large eggs
Directions:
Step 1: Preparation
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan. This step ensures that your bread won’t stick to the pan, allowing for easy removal once baked.
Step 2: Cooking Quinoa
In a pot, combine quinoa and water, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and simmer covered for 15 minutes or until water is fully absorbed. Remove from heat and let it cool, enjoying the nutty aroma that fills your kitchen.
Step 3: Mixing Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, optional protein powder, salt, and baking powder. Stir well to ensure that everything is evenly distributed.
Step 4: Mixing Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, milk, and eggs until smooth. This mixture should be creamy and slightly frothy.
Step 5: Combining Ingredients
Add the cooled quinoa to the wet ingredients and mix well. Next, combine the wet and dry mixtures, stirring until just combined. Do not over-mix; a few lumps are okay!
Step 6: Baking
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The loaf should be golden brown and fragrant.
Step 7: Cooling
Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period allows the bread to set fully and makes slicing easier.
How to Serve High Protein Quinoa Bread
This bread is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Enjoy it toasted with a smear of your favorite nut butter or jam for breakfast, or use it as a hearty base for a sandwich filled with fresh vegetables and protein of your choice for lunch. It can also be served alongside soups or salads for a nutritious dinner option.
How to Store High Protein Quinoa Bread
To store your High Protein Quinoa Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can keep it at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you want to save it for later, slice the bread and freeze it in a resealable bag for up to three months. Just toast or microwave the slices when ready to enjoy!
Expert Tips for Perfect High Protein Quinoa Bread
- Ensure that the quinoa is rinsed well to remove any bitterness before cooking.
- Experiment with different flavors by adding herbs or spices to the batter, such as garlic powder or dried basil.
- If you want a sweeter loaf, consider increasing the amount of honey or adding chocolate chips.
- For a fluffier texture, allow the quinoa to cool completely before mixing it with the wet ingredients.
Delicious Variations
- Nutty Quinoa Bread: Add chopped nuts like walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch.
- Herbed Quinoa Bread: Incorporate fresh or dried herbs such as thyme or rosemary into the mixture for a savory twist.
- Cheesy Quinoa Bread: Sprinkle in some shredded cheese for a deliciously cheesy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free flour in place of whole wheat flour to make this recipe gluten-free. -
Can I omit the eggs?
Absolutely! Try using flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) for a vegan-friendly version. -
What can I use instead of honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar can be used as a substitute for honey. -
How can I make it less dense?
Make sure not to over-mix the batter, as it can lead to a dense loaf. Also, check your baking powder to ensure it’s fresh. -
How do I know when the bread is done baking?
Insert a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean, the bread is done. If there’s any batter on the toothpick, continue baking for a few more minutes.
Conclusion
High Protein Quinoa Bread is a nourishing and tasty option for anyone looking to enjoy bread without compromising on nutrition. With its simple preparation and versatile flavors, this recipe invites you to get creative in the kitchen. Whether you’re slathering it with your favorite spread or using it for sandwiches, you can feel good knowing that you’re indulging in a healthy treat. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds—and your body—will thank you!
Print
High Protein Quinoa Bread
- Total Time: 65 minutes
- Yield: 8 slices 1x
- Diet: Gluten-Free, Vegetarian
Description
A nutritious and gluten-free bread made with quinoa and whole wheat flour, perfect for boosting protein intake.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup water
- 2 cups whole wheat flour
- 1/4 cup protein powder (optional)
- 2 tablespoons honey or maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/4 cup olive oil or melted coconut oil
- 1/2 cup milk or non-dairy alternative
- 2 large eggs
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
- In a pot, combine quinoa and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let cool.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine whole wheat flour, protein powder, salt, and baking powder.
- In another bowl, whisk together honey, olive oil, milk, and eggs until smooth.
- Add cooled quinoa to the wet ingredients and mix well. Combine the wet and dry mixtures, stirring until just combined.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
- Let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Experiment with additional flavors by adding nuts or herbs. Store wrapped at room temperature for up to 2 days or in the fridge for up to a week.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 190
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
