Why Irish oatmeal? Because it has bite. It is nutty and really, really good for me. You make the oatmeal, then have fun dressing it any way that you would like.
I am not so good with New Year’s resolutions, but I do try. This year I want to eat more fruit and vegetables, and to eat breakfast. I really do not like eating breakfast. I am not a morning person, I do not like eating when I wake up, and I am usually in a rush. For years, I ate the same exact breakfast if I was in fact going to eat breakfast. A whole-wheat English muffin with peanut butter. A girl gets bored. Have I mentioned that I am somewhat of a picky eater? I know that it is hard to imagine doing what I do, but I have a serious texture issue. I like to chew my food. I really wish that I could get over it, I would love to be able to eat yogurt, I think that it would end my breakfast issues. But for now, I am eating Irish oatmeal.
Why Irish oatmeal? Because it has bite. It is nutty and really, really good for me. The thing about steel-cut oats (the other name for Irish oatmeal) is that it takes a really long time to cook. But if you start it the night before, it is no big deal, it takes minutes. This is a method. You make the oatmeal, but you can dress it any way that you would like. This apple and pecan combination is great, but so is dried fruit, maple syrup, walnuts, and coconut, the possibilities are endless.
Variations
While I have already included various ingredients that can be added to the oatmeal, here are some themed ways to serve this morning treat:
- Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal: Add chopped apples and cinnamon before refrigerating. In the morning, top with additional apple slices, nuts, and a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Banana Nut Oatmeal: Mash a ripe (i.e., close to brown) banana into the oatmeal mixture and add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans. In the morning, top with fresh banana slices, a dollop of yogurt, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
- Blueberry Almond Oatmeal: Add fresh or frozen blueberries and chopped almonds to the oatmeal mixture before refrigerating. In the morning, top with additional blueberries, a drizzle of honey, and a splash of almond milk.
- Chocolate Peanut Butter Oatmeal: Stir in a tablespoon of cocoa powder and a dollop of peanut butter into the oatmeal mixture before refrigerating. In the morning, top with sliced bananas, chopped peanuts, and a drizzle of chocolate syrup.
- Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal: Add canned pumpkin, pumpkin pie spice, and a drizzle of maple syrup to the oatmeal mixture before refrigerating. In the morning, top with granola, chopped nuts, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.
What does it mean when oats are ‘steel-cut’?
The entire oat groat is passed through a machine, which then chops it up using steel blades or discs. Because the oat is still in its entirety when it’s cut, it is chewier and takes longer to cook. That said, they are believed to be better for you, with more fiber, protein, and essential nutrients than regular oatmeal.
How To Store Irish Oatmeal
Let the oatmeal cool completely then transfer to an airtight container. You can also keep the oatmeal in the Dutch oven you made it in. The oatmeal should last for up to 5 days. Because of this, you can make a week’s worth of oatmeal and just go back to it every morning. If you plan on keeping it for longer, you can freeze the oatmeal for up to 3 months. When you want to eat it, add a splash of milk and microwave it for 30-60 seconds at a time. You can also do the same thing but on the stove.
Overnight Irish Oatmeal
Ingredients Â
- 1 cup Irish Oatmeal
- 4 cups water
- pinch salt
add in:
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 Tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 diced apple
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans
- almond milk if you need to thin the oatmeal a bit
InstructionsÂ
- Pour 1 cup of oatmeal into 4 cups of boiling water. Add a pinch of salt.
- Let the oatmeal simmer for 1 minute.
- Cover the pot and refrigerate overnight.
- The next morning, put the pot on the stove and cook over low heat for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the oatmeal is hot.
- Add whatever you like to your oatmeal.
Leave a Comment