5 Minute Oats
If you've ever found yourself rushing to get out the door in the morning only to realize you’ve skipped breakfast, let me introduce you to 5-minute oats. This dish has changed my breakfast game forever. It’s a comforting bowl of goodness that comes together in no time at all, and it’s as healthy as it is filling.
Equipment
- Microwave or stovetop
- Mixing bowl
- Small saucepan
Ingredients
Base Recipe
- ½ cup rolled oats
- 1 cup water
- Pinch of salt
- 2-3 tablespoons milk of your choice I love almond milk for its nutty flavor
- 1 teaspoon honey for sweetness
Maple Brown Sugar Variation
- 1 teaspoon dark brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons chopped pecans for crunch
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
Banana Nut Variation
- ½ banana sliced (because who doesn’t love banana in their oats?)
- 2 tablespoons chopped walnuts
- 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
- 1/8 teaspoon cinnamon
Strawberry & Cream Variation
- ½ cup fresh strawberries sliced
- 1 tablespoon half and half
- 2 teaspoons honey
- 1/8 teaspoon vanilla extract to elevate the flavor
Chocolate Peanut Butter Variation
- 2 teaspoons cocoa powder
- 1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
- 2 teaspoons chocolate chips
- 1 teaspoon roasted peanuts
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Base
- Microwave Instructions:
- Grab a microwave-safe bowl and add the rolled oats, water, and a pinch of salt. It's essential to use a large enough bowl to prevent spills when the oats cook. Set your microwave on high and heat the mixture for about 90 seconds. After that, keep an eye on it, adding 15-second increments until you see the oats puffing and softening up. The first time is a bit of a trial and error, but you’ll soon know the sweet spot for your microwave.
- Stovetop Instructions:
- If you prefer a stovetop approach, grab a small saucepan. Pour in the water and bring it to a rolling boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and add the rolled oats. Stir occasionally as the oats cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and absorb most of the liquid. This method offers a lovely texture that many enjoy!
Step 2: Add the Milk
- Once your oats are cooked—whether in the microwave or on the stovetop—add in your choice of milk and stir well. This makes for a creamier consistency that is oh-so-satisfying!
Step 3: Let it Sit
- After stirring in the milk, remove the bowl or saucepan from the heat. Cover it and let it sit for 2-3 minutes. This resting time allows the oats to thicken up and absorb even more flavor.
Step 4: Toppings Galore!
- This is where the magic happens. Stir in your chosen toppings based on the variation you want. Mix in everything from fresh fruit to nuts to spices. Feel free to adjust the sweetness or creaminess, as tastes vary.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Let the oats cool down for a couple of minutes before diving in. If you like your oats a tad thinner, add a splash more milk. Serve warm and enjoy your hearty bowl of nourishment!
Notes
Here are some handy tips to elevate your 5-minute oats:
Experiment with Cooking Liquid: Instead of just water, try using almond milk, coconut milk, or a mix of water and broth for different flavors.
Add a Scoop of Protein: Boost your protein intake by stirring in some Greek yogurt or a scoop of protein powder after cooking.
Flavor Boosts: Spice things up with a bit of nutmeg or cardamom alongside cinnamon for a unique twist.
Garnish Wisely: Use fresh fruit or nuts as a garnish on the top to make it visually appealing and add crunch or creaminess.
Meal Prep: Make a few servings ahead of time, store them in the fridge, and microwave in the morning for a super quick breakfast.
Nutrition
Serving: 1gCalories: 400kcal
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!