Breakfast Bowls | Grains & Starches

Breakfast Buckwheat Bowl

Name: Breakfast Buckwheat Bowl
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 1 cup buckwheat; 1 cup water; 1 cup almond milk; 2 tablespoons brown sugar; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; pinch salt; brown sugar; nuts and seeds

Bymyplantbasedbowl March 9, 2025March 9, 2025

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This breakfast buckwheat bowl is a hearty, spiced alternative to oatmeal. Buckwheat cooks to a tender texture in a mix of almond milk and warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. Pile on crunchy nuts, sweet bananas, and a splash of maple syrup for a nourishing, made-from-scratch breakfast bowl.

A bowl of buckwheat served like porridge with pecans, hemp seeds, almonds, and milk.

What is Buckwheat?

Despite its name, buckwheat isn’t a type of wheat at all. It’s actually a gluten-free seed from a plant related to rhubarb, making it a great choice for those avoiding gluten. Buckwheat has a nutty flavor and is packed with protein, fiber, and essential minerals.

If you’re looking for something new to replace your morning oatmeal, these Breakfast Buckwheat Bowls are perfect.

Buckwheat is naturally gluten-free, packed with nutrients, and has a nutty flavor that works well with warm spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger. The mix of water and almond milk creates a creamy, tender texture without being overly rich.

This recipe is also versatile. Whether you like fresh fruit, crunchy nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup, you can customize these bowls to suit your taste.

Plus, buckwheat is quick-cooking—just 10 minutes on the stovetop and a short rest time, and you’re ready to eat.

With minimal effort and wholesome ingredients, you’ll have a warm, satisfying breakfast to start your day off right.

Ingredients

This is a brief overview of the ingredients used in this recipe followed by substitution ideas. Read the recipe card for measurements.

buckwheat groats – buckwheat is nutty, earthy, and slightly chewy. It’s naturally gluten-free and packed with fiber, making it filling and nutritious. Rinsing the groats removes any bitterness.
almond milk – adds a light creaminess and subtle nutty flavor. Unsweetened almond milk keeps the dish balanced without overpowering sweetness. Combine with water to balance the creaminess or use all almond milk.
brown sugar – for sweetness that pairs perfectly with the spices. You can adjust the amount to suit your taste.
vanilla extract – a small amount enhances the sweetness and brings out the flavors of the spices.
spices: ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, ground ginger – adds warmth and depth to the recipe, making it taste cozy and slightly sweet. The ginger adds a gentle kick of warmth and a subtle zing.

Substitutions

almond milk – use any plant-based milk like oat milk or cashew milk for a creamier consistency.
brown sugar – swap in maple syrup, honey, or coconut sugar as a natural sweetener.
spices – if you’re out of nutmeg or ginger, you can stick with just cinnamon or add a pinch of allspice for a similar warmth.
vanilla extract – if you don’t have vanilla, you can skip it.

Buckwheat contains fiber and antioxidants which can support overall health.

Instructions

Prep Tips

This recipe is made on the stovetop.
Prep your toppings while the buckwheat cooks.

The method for this recipe is easy – you’ll just boil and then simmer the buckwheat with flavorful additions like ground spices.

Rinse the buckwheat before using it to help prevent bitterness.

Spices added to a pot whit buckwheat and milk.

Add the liquid, buckwheat, spices, vanilla extract, brown sugar, and salt to a small pot. Bring to a boil.

Once at a boil, turn the heat to medium low. Add a lid and simmer for 10 minutes.

The water may foam over a few times. Lift the lid briefly so the foam subsides and then replace it when this happens.

After 10 minutes of simmering, remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit for 5 minutes, keeping the lid on.

Stir the vanilla extract through and then serve.

I like to top it with a splash of almond milk, pecans, sliced almonds, hemp hearts, and a sprinkle of brown sugar.

Tips for Making

rinse the buckwheat – rinsing buckwheat groats before cooking removes any bitterness and ensures a clean, mild flavor.
don’t skip the rest time – after simmering, let the buckwheat sit off the heat for 5 minutes. This helps absorb any remaining liquid and improves the texture.
use the right liquid ratio – the mix of water and almond milk creates the perfect creamy texture without making the dish too heavy. Adjust slightly if you prefer thicker or thinner results.
stir occasionally – stirring while the buckwheat cooks helps prevent sticking and ensures even cooking.
customize your toppings – add nuts, seeds, fruit, or a drizzle of maple syrup to create a balanced bowl with crunch, sweetness, and creaminess. Bananas, pecans, and chia seeds are great options.

Storage

Store leftover cooked buckwheat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or a pot on the stovetop with a splash of almond milk or water to restore its creamy texture.

Frequently asked questions

Can I make buckwheat ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare buckwheat porridge in advance. After cooking, allow the porridge to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the porridge on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or water to restore its creamy consistency.

Is buckwheat gluten-free?

Yes, buckwheat is naturally gluten-free. Despite its name, buckwheat is not related to wheat; it’s a seed from a plant related to rhubarb.

A bowl of buckwheat served like porridge with pecans, hemp seeds, almonds, and milk with the text buckwheat breakfast bowl.

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Jacqueline

Hi, I’m Jacqueline. I write this website and create plant-based recipes that are easy to make and taste great. I love cooking and making elaborate bowl recipes, gardening and taking care of my little cabin, and I’m happy reading or watching a new show on Netflix.