Steel cut oats are whole grain oats which have been cut into pieces instead of rolled flat. They take loger to cook than rolled oats but they have a nuttier, chewier texture. I use our small crock pot and cook it overnight. When we get up on a busy school-day morning, breakfast is ready and waiting. Add your favorite toppings (see the list below) to make it different every time. My favorite combination is almond milk, agave nectar, sunflower seeds (salted), raisins, and chopped apples. Give it a try and let me know your favorite combinations.
I first tried this dish in a small restaurant in San Francisco. The offered a simple menu of hot oatmeal, quinoa and coffee. After selecting either oats or quinoa, you then choose the toppings--a combination of sweetener, fruits, nuts, milk. I would leave with fresh hot cup of oats that was delicious, nutritious and very satisfying. We have been making it at home ever since. I have yet to try it with the quinoa, but it is on my list.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup steel cut oats (you can use rolled oats, but if you do, reduce the water to 3 cups)
- 4 cups water
Directions:
- Place oats and wanter in a crock pot. Cook on low about 8 hours or overnight.
- Top with your favorite toppings!
- sweetener: honey, agave nectar, syrup, brown sugar, ...
- toasted nuts: sunflower seeds, almonds, pecans, walnuts, ...
- dried fruit: raisins, cranberries, cherries, ...
- fresh fruit: bananas, chopped apples, blueberries, strawberries, ...
- milk: Almond, Soy, Cow, ...
- seasoning: cinnamon, nutmeg, ...