Ah, the morning hustle—there’s nothing quite like it. But imagine this: a warm, creamy bowl of steel cut oatmeal gently nudging you awake with its nutty aroma, like a comforting hug in a bowl. It’s like those cozy fall mornings when the air feels crisp, and you just want to wrap yourself in a blanket and savor every spoonful—oatmeal, my steadfast breakfast companion, never disappoints.
Steps
- In a large saucepan or small Dutch oven, combine 2½ cups of water and 1 cup of milk. Heat the mixture over high heat until it reaches a boil.
- Add 1 cup of steel-cut oats and ¼ teaspoon of sea salt to the boiling liquid. Reduce the heat to maintain a gentle simmer and cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Once the oats are thick and creamy, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the oatmeal to sit for 2 minutes to further thicken.
- Stir in any desired mix-ins, such as cinnamon or vanilla extract, for added flavor. Divide the oatmeal into bowls and serve with your choice of toppings like fresh or dried fruit, nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup.
Ingredients
- 2½ cups water
- 1 cup milk (any type, including dairy or non-dairy alternatives like almond or coconut milk)
- 1 cup steel-cut oats
- ¼ teaspoon sea salt
- Optional mix-ins or toppings: cinnamon, dried fruit, fresh berries, nuts, maple syrup, etc.
FAQ
- What makes steel cut oats different from other types of oats?
- Steel cut oats are oat groats that have been coarsely chopped, giving them a creamy texture with a slightly chewy bite once cooked. In contrast, rolled oats are steamed and flattened, while quick-cooking oats are steamed longer and pressed thinner, resulting in a softer texture.
- How can I cook steel cut oats to achieve a creamy texture?
- To make creamy steel cut oats, use a higher liquid-to-oat ratio, such as 3 1/2 cups of liquid for every cup of oats. A mix of milk and water works well. Bring the liquid to a boil, add the oats, and simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Can I prepare steel cut oats using an Instant Pot?
- Yes, steel cut oats can be made in an Instant Pot for a hands-free cooking experience. This method allows you to avoid constant stirring. Refer to a specific Instant Pot steel cut oats recipe for detailed instructions.
- How should I store and reheat leftover steel cut oats?
- Store leftover steel cut oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, use the microwave or a saucepan on the stove. You might need to add a splash of milk or water to restore their creamy consistency, as they thicken when refrigerated.
- What are some tasty topping ideas for steel cut oats?
- Enhance your steel cut oatmeal with various toppings such as fresh fruits like berries or bananas, dried fruits like raisins, toasted nuts or seeds, nut butter, sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, Greek yogurt, or even chocolate chips for extra flavor and nutrition.
Tips
- Use a mix of water and milk for cooking the oats to achieve a creamier texture. You can choose any type of milk, including non-dairy alternatives like almond or coconut milk, to suit your preference.
- Stir the oats frequently while simmering to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan and forming a gummy layer. This ensures a smooth and creamy consistency.
- Prepare a larger batch of steel cut oats and store leftovers in the fridge for up to four days. They reheat well, making them ideal for meal prep. You can add a splash of milk or water when reheating to maintain creaminess.
- Enhance the flavor of your oatmeal by stirring in optional mix-ins such as cinnamon, ground ginger, or vanilla extract after cooking. These additions can add warmth and depth to the dish.
Equipment
- Instant Pot – If you want to use an alternative cooking method instead of the stovetop.
- Small Dutch Oven – For cooking the oats if you don’t already have a suitable saucepan.
- Airtight Containers – For storing leftovers in the refrigerator.
- Microwave-safe Bowls – For reheating the oatmeal in the microwave.
- Spice Grinder – If you want to freshly grind spices like cinnamon or ginger.
- Milk Frother – If you’re using non-dairy milk and want to make it extra creamy.
