Perfect Steel Cut Oats Recipe
Introduction
Steel cut oats offer a hearty and wholesome breakfast option that’s both comforting and nutritious. This recipe guides you to cook perfectly tender oats with a subtle sweetness and warm cinnamon flavor.
Ingredients
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup almond milk, or other milk or water
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Step 1: Pour the water and milk (if using) into a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Step 2: Add the oats and salt to the pan, stir, and reduce the heat to a low simmer.
- Step 3: Cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring often, until the oats reach your desired texture. For chewier oats, cook 20-25 minutes; for softer oats, cook longer, adding more liquid as needed.
- Step 4: Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
- Step 5: Add your favorite toppings and serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- For creamier oats, substitute all the water with milk or a milk alternative.
- Try stirring in fresh fruit or nuts for added texture and flavor.
- Add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger for a spiced twist.
Storage
Store leftover steel cut oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk or water to loosen the texture if needed.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I cook steel cut oats in a slow cooker?
Yes, steel cut oats can be cooked in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. Use about 5 cups of liquid per cup of oats to prevent drying out.
Why do my oats sometimes turn out too mushy?
Overcooking or using too much liquid can make oats mushy. Stir regularly and adjust cooking time and liquid amount to achieve your preferred texture.
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Perfect Steel Cut Oats Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A wholesome and comforting recipe for perfect steel cut oats, cooked on the stovetop to creamy, chewy perfection. Enhanced with vanilla, maple syrup, and cinnamon, this breakfast staple is versatile and easy to customize with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Liquid Base
- 3 cups water
- 1 cup almond milk, or other milk or water
Oats and Flavorings
- 1 cup steel cut oats
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Boil Liquids: Pour the water and almond milk (or alternative liquid) into a medium saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add Oats and Simmer: Stir in the steel cut oats and salt, then reduce heat to a low simmer. Cook gently for 20-30 minutes.
- Stir and Adjust Texture: Stir often during cooking to prevent sticking. Cook 20-25 minutes for chewier texture or longer for softer oats, adding more liquid if needed.
- Finalize Flavors: Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract, maple syrup, and cinnamon to enhance the natural sweetness and aroma.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Customize with your favorite toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, or seeds before serving.
Notes
- For creamier oats, use more milk or a mix of milk and water.
- Consistent stirring prevents oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Adjust cooking time based on your preferred oat texture.
- Maple syrup can be replaced with honey or brown sugar.
- Steel cut oats can be soaked overnight to reduce cooking time.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Steel Cut Oats, Breakfast Oats, Rolled Oat Alternative, Stovetop Oatmeal, Healthy Breakfast, Maple Cinnamon Oats
