Quick and Easy Oatmeal Prep for Busy Mornings
Are you looking for a delicious and nutritious breakfast that can be prepared in a flash? Look no further than oatmeal! Not only is oatmeal a hearty, healthy satisfying whole food meal, but it is also incredibly versatile. Whether you prefer sweet or savory flavors, there are countless ways to prepare this wholesome grain into what some refer to as porridge. Here are three of the fastest ways to make oatmeal:
1. Microwave Oatmeal
If you’re in a hurry, microwave oatmeal is the perfect solution. Simply combine your desired amount of oats with water or milk in a microwave-safe bowl. Cook on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. This works best with rolled oats, although some kinds of steel cut oats will also work for those that like less processing and a chewier texture. Add your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit, nuts, and you’re good to go!
2. Overnight Oats
For a no-cook option, overnight oats are a game-changer. Before you go to bed, combine equal parts oats and water in a bowl. Add your choice of mix-ins, such as chia seeds, flaxseeds, or cinnamon. Give it a good stir, cover the container, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, grab your bowl of delicious, ready-to-eat oats and enjoy!
3. Instant Pot Oatmeal
If you have a pressure cooker like an Instant Pot, making oatmeal has never been easier. Simply add oats, liquid, and any desired flavorings to the pot. Set the timer, and let the Instant Pot work its magic. In just a few minutes, you’ll have perfectly cooked oatmeal that is ready to be customized with your favorite toppings.
Five Types of Oatmeal
Steel Cut: This is the most minimally processed type of oatmeal, consisting of roughly cut oat groats. These are the chewiest and take the longest to prepare and are the most filling.
Rolled Oats (Old-Fashioned): This type of oatmeal is minimally processed by steaming and rolled into flakes. Rolled oats take less time than steel cut to prepare. The body also has less work to do to digest these oats, therefore rolled oats are generally less filling.
Rolled Oats (Quick): This type of oatmeal is steamed longer and chopped more than old-fashioned rolled oats. They digest even faster and are likely even less filling.
Rolled Oats (Instant): This type of oatmeal is usually packaged in single servings. It is steamed even longer and cut even more finely than quick oats. These packages also often contain lots of sugar. These oats often have the least health benefits of the five on this list.
So, whether you’re a microwave master, an overnight oats enthusiast, or an Instant Pot aficionado, there’s a quick and easy oatmeal recipe for you. For a naturally sweet breakfast, ditch the refined sugar and explore some alternatives like applesauce, mashed banana, dates, or fresh or frozen fruit of your choice. The possibilities are endless! Say goodbye to breakfast stress and start your day off right with a delicious bowl of oatmeal!
What are your favorite oatmeal hacks or must-have toppings? Share your tips in the comments below!
