Rinse the quinoa. Place the quinoa in a fine mesh strainer and rinse it under cool water for about 30 seconds. This helps remove any bitterness and gives you a cleaner taste.
Cook the quinoa. Add the rinsed quinoa and water or almond milk to a small saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid absorbs.
Let it rest. Turn off the heat and let the quinoa sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
Then fluff it gently with a fork so it stays light and fluffy.
Cook the apples. While the quinoa cooks, warm the butter or coconut oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced apple and sauté for 3 to 4 minutes, until the apples start to soften.
Add flavor. Stir in the cinnamon, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes so the apples turn glossy and fragrant.
Combine everything. Spoon the cooked quinoa into bowls and top with the warm apple mixture.
Stir gently if you want the flavors mixed throughout, or keep the layers separate for a prettier bowl.
Add toppings. Finish with walnuts or pecans, raisins or dried cranberries, yogurt, chia seeds, and extra cinnamon. Add a drizzle of maple syrup if you want a sweeter bowl.