Rolled Oats

"Rolled oats, also known as old-fashioned oats, are whole oat grains that have been steamed and flattened into flakes, making them a versatile and nutritious food used for oatmeal, granola, and baking. They are a good source of fiber, protein, and minerals, and their soluble fiber (beta-glucan) may help lower cholesterol and blood sugar, reducing the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Rolled oats cook faster than steel-cut oats but slower than quick or instant oats, offering a balance of convenience and texture" (Source: Google AI).

Rolled oats are super easy to prepare, whether by microwaving, stovetop, or in an Instant Pot. Our special needs son likes to make his own oats each morning, and his preferred method is in the microwave.

Importance of Texture

We have found that when someone says they don't like oats or oatmeal, it's because of the texture. And the majority of these people have only experienced instant oatmeal or creamier oatmeal. 

Our personal preference is for a firmer, chewier consistency which can be achieved by decreasing the water-to-oats ratio. When presented with a firmer, chewier result, critics of oatmeal usually become fans. 

Method 1: Microwave Oven

This is the process our son uses to make his single serving of oats in the morning. Note that he has a pretty big appetite, so adjust the amount of oats according to your own needs. 

  1. Put 1 cup of rolled oats into a microwavable bowl. 
  2. Add a good shake of cinnamon. 
  3. Add a fistful of walnuts or other kind of nuts (optional). 
  4. Add fruit—chopped apple, dehydrated apple pieces, raisins, frozen blueberries, raspberries, etc. (Add a little extra water if using dehydrated apple pieces.)
  5. Add whatever else you think would be good—date pieces, shredded coconut, ground flax seeds, sesame seeds, millet (to give it crunch), etc. 
  6. Add 1 cup water and stir everything together. (Add more water if you want creamier oats.)
  7. Cook in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
  8. Add a small amount of sweetener like maple syrup or raw (turbinado) sugar (optional). We like to put a small amount on top rather than mix it in. This way use less and taste it more.
  9. Add a bit of your favorite plant-based milk (perhaps 1/2 cup).

As you see, we are not talking about an exact recipe! Experiment. See what works for your preferences. See if you can come up with a personalized concoction that meets your taste and texture preferences. 

Method 2: Instant Pot

  1. Add your oats, cinnamon, nuts, fruit, and water to an Instant Pot and cook for 1 minute—but make sure you have 1 1/4 cups water for every 1 cup of oats. For example, if you were making oats for 2-3 people, try 2 cups oats and 2 1/2 cups water.
  2. Serve and add sweetener and plant-based milk to individual taste. 

Method 3: Stovetop

  1. Add your oats, cinnamon, nuts, fruit, and water to a saucepan. Add 1 1/2 cups water for each cup of dry oats. Add more water for creamier oats.
  2. Bring to boil, turn off the burner, cover, and let sit for a few minutes.
  3. Stir before serving for creamier oats (optional). 
  4. Serve and add sweetener and plant-based milk to individual taste.