Introduction
If you’re looking for a comforting dessert that combines healthfulness and deliciousness, the Apple Pear Quinoa Crisp is the perfect choice. This delightful dish features a harmonious blend of sweet apples and pears, topped with a crunchy quinoa-based crisp. It’s an excellent way to enjoy the flavors of autumn while keeping your dessert nutritious. Whether for a family gathering or a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to impress.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
Apples: 4 cups, peeled and sliced
Pears: 2 cups, peeled and sliced
Quinoa: 1 cup, cooked
Brown Sugar: 1/2 cup
Cinnamon: 1 tsp
Nutmeg: 1/4 tsp
Oats: 1 cup
All-Purpose Flour: 1/2 cup
Chopped Nuts: 1/2 cup (optional)
Butter: 1/2 cup, melted
Salt: 1/4 tsp
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Quinoa
Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water in a fine-mesh sieve. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of water.
Cook the Quinoa
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed.
Preheat the Oven
While the quinoa is cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
Prepare the Fruit Mixture
In a large bowl, combine 2 cups of diced apples and 2 cups of diced pears. Add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, ½ cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Stir until the fruit is well coated with the sugar and spices.
Add the Cooked Quinoa
Once the quinoa is done cooking, fluff it with a fork and add it to the bowl with the fruit mixture. Mix well to combine.
Prepare the Crisp Topping
In another bowl, mix together 1 cup of oats, ½ cup of all-purpose flour, ½ cup of brown sugar, and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon. Add ¼ cup of melted butter and stir until the ingredients are well combined and crumbly.
Assemble the Crisp
Pour the fruit and quinoa mixture into a greased baking dish. Evenly distribute the crisp topping over the fruit mixture.
Bake the Crisp
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbly.
Cool and Serve
Remove the quinoa crisp from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Fruit Alternatives
Feel free to use other fruits like peaches, blueberries, or cherries, depending on your preference and seasonality.
Sweetness Adjustment
Adjust the amount of brown sugar depending on your sweetness preference and the natural sweetness of the fruits used.
Vegan Option
To make this recipe vegan, substitute the butter with coconut oil or a vegan butter alternative.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the quinoa crisp warm, ideally with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Cook techniques
Preparing Quinoa
Rinse the quinoa in cold water before cooking to remove any bitterness. Cook it according to package instructions, usually by simulating a rice method: combine with water or broth and simmer until the grains are fluffy.
Fruit Preparation
Peel and chop the apples and pears into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Mixing different varieties of apples and pears can add complexity to the flavor.
Making the Crisp Topping
Combine oats, flour, and sweeteners with melted butter or coconut oil. Mix until crumbly, allowing for variation in texture.
Baking Techniques
Layer the fruit mixture in a baking dish and evenly spread the crisp topping over it. Bake until the topping is golden brown and the fruit is bubbling, usually recommended at a temperature around 350°F.
FAQ
Can I use different fruits for the crisp?
Yes, you can experiment with various fruits based on your preference and seasonal availability.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or oat flour, and ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free.
Is it possible to prepare the crisp in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the fruit filling and the topping separately and assemble just before baking.
What should I serve with the apple-pear quinoa crisp?
This dish pairs well with vanilla ice cream, whipped cream, or a dollop of yogurt for added creaminess.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat in the oven to restore the crispiness.
Conclusion
The Apple Pear Quinoa Crisp is a delightful and wholesome dessert that combines the sweetness of apples and pears with the nutty flavor of quinoa, topped with a crunchy oat and nut topping. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed warm, perhaps with a scoop of ice cream or a dollop of yogurt, making it perfect for gatherings or a comforting night in.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Berry Quinoa Crisp
Substitute apples and pears with a mix of berries for a tart and sweet alternative. This version is bursting with vibrant colors and flavors, perfect for summer.
Peach Almond Crisp
Use ripe peaches and add sliced almonds to the topping for a delicious twist. The combination of juicy peaches and crunchy almonds is a match made in heaven.
Pumpkin Spice Quinoa Crisp
Incorporate pumpkin puree and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a fall-inspired dessert. This version adds a creamy texture alongside the comforting crisp.
Chocolate Banana Quinoa Crisp
Mix bananas with a rich chocolate sauce for a decadent treat. Top it with a chocolate oat crumble for an indulgent dessert that chocolate lovers will adore.
Mixed Stone Fruit Crisp
Combine different stone fruits like cherries, plums, and apricots for a vibrant and juicy crisp. The varied textures and flavors create an exciting dessert option.
