Oats Porridge

Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious breakfast option? Look no further than oats porridge! This recipe is not only easy to make, but it's also packed with healthy ingredients like chia seeds, fresh fruits, and nuts. In this post, we will walk you through the steps to make a mouthwatering oats porridge that will leave you feeling satisfied and energized. So, let's dive into this wholesome and delicious recipe!

What Is Oats Porridge?

• Oats porridge is a delicious and nutritious breakfast dish that is easy to make and customizable to individual tastes. This recipe combines the wholesome goodness of traditional oats with a mix of succulent strawberries, bananas, walnuts, and dry cherries.
• The addition of spices like cinnamon powder and unique seasoning with low-calorie sweetener and chia seeds adds a delightful twist to this classic dish. It's a perfect way to start your day with a filling and flavorful meal.

Enjoy the goodness of oats porridge with a touch of Indian flavors and a variety of healthy toppings to suit your palate.

Why You'll Love Oats Porridge?

• Creamy Texture: The oats porridge has a creamy and comforting texture that makes it a perfect breakfast option, especially on a chilly morning.
• High in Fiber: Oats are a rich source of fiber, which helps in promoting better digestion and keeping you full for a longer period of time.
• Packed with Nutrients: This porridge is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, and antioxidants from the fruits and nuts.
• Low in Calories: By using low-calorie sweetener and non-dairy milk options, this recipe is a great choice for those looking to manage their calorie intake.
• Heart-Healthy: The combination of oats and walnuts in this porridge makes it heart-healthy, as it is known to help in reducing cholesterol levels and improving heart health.
• Versatile and Customizable: You can customize this porridge with your favorite fruits, nuts, and seeds to make it your own, and it can be easily adapted to fit different dietary preferences.

Ingredients for Oats Porridge

• Traditional oats: This is the main ingredient for the porridge, providing a hearty and filling base for the dish.
• Milk/Almond milk/Soy milk: Adds creaminess and richness to the porridge, enhancing the overall texture and flavor.
• Low-calorie sweetener: Sweetens the porridge without adding too much sugar, providing a healthier alternative to traditional sweeteners.
• Chia seeds: Adds a nutritional boost to the porridge, providing omega-3 fatty acids and fiber.
• Sliced strawberries and bananas: Adds natural sweetness, fruity flavor, and vibrant colors to the porridge, making it visually appealing and delicious.
• Walnuts and dry cherries: Adds a satisfying crunch and a hint of natural sweetness to the porridge, providing a contrast in texture and flavor.

How To Make Oats Porridge?

To make a delicious oats porridge, follow these simple steps for a flavorful experience:

• Place 1 cup of traditional oats in a wide microwave-safe bowl and microwave it on high for 1 minute or until roasted.
• Remove from the oven and pour 2 cups of water and salt, stir well until combined and microwave for 3 mins or until it boils.
• Add milk, stir well, and microwave for another 1&1/2 to 2 mins or until it is cooked through.
• Remove from the oven, add low-calorie sweetener and chia seeds, and let it cool for some time.
• Finally, add the sliced strawberries, bananas, walnuts (chopped), dry cherries, and sprinkle cinnamon powder over the porridge.

These steps are important for creating a delicious and nutritious oats porridge that is packed with flavor and texture. By following these instructions, you can enjoy a satisfying and wholesome breakfast option.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with Fresh Fruit: Serve the oats porridge with a side of fresh fruit like sliced apples or a fruit salad to add a refreshing touch to the meal.
• Toast and Jam: Add a serving of whole grain toast with a spread of your favorite jam or preserves for a balanced and satisfying breakfast.
• Yogurt Parfait: Create a yogurt parfait with layers of oats porridge, yogurt, and a sprinkle of granola or nuts for a delicious and nutritious meal.
• Eggs: Accompany the oats porridge with a side of scrambled eggs or a boiled egg for added protein and variety to the meal.
• Smoothie: Enjoy the porridge alongside a homemade smoothie made with your choice of fruits and leafy greens, creating a well-rounded breakfast option.
• Avocado Toast: Pair the oats porridge with a serving of avocado toast topped with a sprinkle of salt and pepper for a wholesome and satisfying breakfast.

Tips for Making Delicious Oats Porridge

Furthermore, I would like to share some of my suggestions for making perfect oats porridge.

• Oats: I used traditional rolled oats but you can also use instant quick oats.  
• Cooking Techniques: Using a microwave to cook the oats ensures a hassle-free and quick cooking process. Make sure to keep an eye on the oats while microwaving to prevent any overflow.
• Another important thing is that you should not overcook it. You can also cook this porridge on a gas stove.
• Importance of Garnishing: Garnishing the oats porridge with a variety of fruits, nuts, and cinnamon not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the flavor and texture of the dish. It also makes the porridge more visually appealing.
• Balancing Flavors: The addition of low-calorie sweetener, chia seeds, and cinnamon powder balances the flavors, making the porridge subtly sweet and aromatic.
• Add Texture: Sliced strawberries, bananas, walnuts, and dry cherries not only add a burst of flavor but also provide a variety of textures to the oatmeal, making each bite interesting.
• Customization: Feel free to customize the porridge by adding your choice of fruits, nuts, or seeds as per your preference and availability. Personalizing the toppings can make this oat porridge recipe even more enjoyable.

Variations for Oats Porridge

• Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruits such as blueberries, raspberries, or even mango for a variety of flavors and nutrients. You can also try adding in some diced apples or pears for a refreshing twist.
• Nutty Additions: Instead of walnuts, try adding almonds, pecans, or cashews to the porridge for a different crunch and texture. You can also mix in some nut butter for a creamy and nutty flavor.
• Flavor Enhancements: Switch up the flavor profile by adding a dash of vanilla extract or almond extract to the porridge. You can also try using different spices like nutmeg, ginger, or cardamom for a unique taste.
• Sweetener Options: Instead of Tropicana slim, low calorie sweetener, you can opt for honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar for a natural sweetener. Stevia or monk fruit sweetener are also great alternatives for those looking to reduce sugar intake.
• Milk Substitutes: If you prefer a dairy-free option, almond milk, soy milk, coconut milk, or oat milk can be used instead of regular milk for a creamy and plant-based version of the porridge.
• Protein Boost: For added protein, consider mixing in some protein powder, Greek yogurt, or silken tofu to the porridge. This will not only increase the protein content but also make the porridge more filling and satisfying.

How to Store Oats Porridge

• Proper Storage of Key Ingredients: It is important to store traditional oats, chia seeds, walnuts, and dry cherries in airtight containers in a cool, dry place to maintain their freshness and prevent them from going rancid.
• Storing Cooked Oats Porridge: If you have leftover oats porridge, allow it to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. When ready to eat, reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk to loosen the consistency if necessary.
• Freezing Oats Porridge: You can also freeze oats porridge for longer storage. Allow the porridge to cool completely before portioning it into airtight containers or resealable bags. Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Maintaining Fresh Fruits: To keep sliced strawberries and bananas fresh, store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. If using frozen fruits, transfer them to a resealable bag and store in the freezer.
• Keeping Nuts Fresh: Store walnuts in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to prevent them from turning rancid. This will help maintain their flavor and texture for a longer period.
• Preserving Dry Cherries: Like the nuts, dry cherries should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freezer to keep them fresh and prevent spoilage.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is it necessary to roast the oats before cooking?

• Yes, roasting the oats before cooking gives them a nutty flavor and better texture, but it is not absolutely necessary. If you prefer not to roast them, you can skip this step and proceed with adding water and salt.

Can I use a different type of sweetener?

• Yes, you can use any sweetener of your choice, such as honey, maple syrup, or regular sugar, instead of low-calorie sweetener. Adjust the quantity according to your taste preference.

Can I use different fruits and nuts?

• Absolutely! Feel free to customize your oats porridge with your favorite fruits and nuts. You can use apples, blueberries, almonds, or any other toppings you like.

Can I make this recipe without a microwave?

• Yes, you can make oats porridge on the stovetop. Simply cook the oats with water and milk in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired consistency.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

• Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using almond milk or soy milk instead of regular milk. You can also omit the chia seeds and use a vegan sweetener.

Can I prepare the oats porridge in advance?

• Yes, you can prepare the oats porridge in advance and store it in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. When ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, and add your favorite toppings before serving.

Recipe Card

Oats Porridge

Oats Porridge  2017-07-11 07:05:45

Serves 2                                Print        

Prep Time   00:05        

Cook Time   00:06        

Total Time   00:11

Ingredients

• 1 cup traditional oats
• 2 cups water
• 1&1/4 cup milk/almond milk/soy milk
• 2 packs Tropicana slim, low calorie sweetener
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon powder
• 1 tsp chia seeds
• one cup sliced strawberries
• 1 medium-sized banana, sliced
• 10 nos walnuts
• 1 handful of dry cherries          

Instructions

• Place 1 cup of traditional oats in a wide microwave safe bowl and microwave it on high for 1 minute or until roasted.
• Then remove from the oven and pour 2 cups of water and salt, stir well until combined and again microwave it for 3 mins. or until it boils.
• Remove from the oven, add milk, stir well and again microwave it for another1&1/2 to 2 mins or until it is cooked through.
• Then remove from the oven, add low-calorie sweetener, chia seeds and let it cool for some time.
• Finally, add the sliced strawberries, bananas, walnuts (chopped), dry cherries and then sprinkle cinnamon powder over the porridge.         

By Santhi Therese    The Indian Claypot

https://theindianclaypot.com/