Before cooking, place quinoa in a fine strainer and rinse under cold running water until water runs clear.

Add 2 cups of water, the cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and pinch of salt to a heavy bottom pan, and bring to a boil, uncovered.

Add washed quinoa, reduce heat and simmer covered until the water is absorbed ( about 15 minutes). At this time the quinoa should not be mushy .

Add the milk and sugar. Bring back to a boil, then reduce heat and cook uncovered, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon, until it reaches a creamy consistency. The pudding should be creamy , not too thick nor overcooked . If you see the bottom of the pan when stirring with the spoon it’s done.

Remove from heat and transfer the pudding into serving dishes.

Sprinkle a little nutmeg or cinnamon and serve warm.