Exploring Savory Oatmeal Recipes: Beyond Muffins and Breakfast

When discussing food or recipes, using the word “best” can be subjective and limiting. Personal taste plays a significant role in determining the preferred way to prepare and consume oats. However, I must share a recipe I adore for a Three Pepper Pilaf that uses egg whites. This dish is delectable and takes only 20 to 25 minutes to prepare. Sprinkling it over various dishes, like cheeseburger spaghetti soup or even pizza, can add a unique flavor element.

While some may prefer their oatmeal cooked into a mush, others might have a more adventurous palate. In this article, we will explore various savory oatmeal recipes that cater to both traditional and innovative tastes. From comforting stews to rich pilafs, let us uncover the versatility of oatmeal in savory dishes.

Savory Oatmeal Variations

Let’s dive into some fascinating savory oatmeal recipes that take the humble oat beyond its traditional breakfast status. These recipes not only showcase the versatility of oats but also add a nutritional boost to your dishes. From quick and easy weekday meals to impressive weeknight dinners, there’s a recipe for everyone. Here are a few to get you started:

1. Three Pepper Pilaf

Quaker’s Three Pepper Pilaf recipe is a delightful mix of flavors in a quick and easy dish. Here’s how to prepare it:

1 cup quinoa 2 cups vegetable broth 1 onion, finely chopped 3 green chilies, pureed 1 tsp cumin powder 1 tsp coriander powder 1 tsp turmeric powder 2 green chilies, finely chopped 1/2 tsp black pepper, ground 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional) 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped In a saucepan, add the quinoa and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until quinoa is cooked. In another pan, sauté the onion until gold and soft. Add the pureed green chilies and cook for another 5 minutes. Add the cooked quinoa, cumin, coriander, turmeric, green chilies, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to the onion mixture. Stir well. Let the mixture cool down slightly before adding the fresh cilantro. Serve hot and sprinkle on top of your favorite dishes, such as cheeseburger spaghetti soup or pizza.

2. Quinoa and Black Bean Stew

This hearty stew is packed with protein and flavor. It’s great for a comforting weeknight dinner:

1 cup quinoa 2 cups vegetable broth 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed 1 onion, sliced 3 garlic cloves, minced 1 bell pepper (any color), chopped 1 cup corn kernels 1 tsp cumin 1 tsp chili powder Salt and pepper, to taste 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro In a saucepan, cook the quinoa in vegetable broth until the quinoa is soft and the liquid is absorbed. In a large pot, sauté the onion, garlic, and bell pepper until the vegetables are soft. Add the quinoa, black beans, corn, cumin, and chili powder. Stir to combine. Simmer for about 20 minutes until the stew is heated through. Season with salt and pepper as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot on a bed of cooked oatmeal as a side dish.

3. Savory Oatmeal Pancakes

Savory oatmeal pancakes are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast dish. Serve with scrambled eggs and grilled vegetables for a complete meal:

1 cup quick-cooking oats 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 1 tsp baking powder 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp dried thyme 1/2 tsp garlic powder 1/4 tsp black pepper 2 large eggs 1/2 cup milk 1/2 cup vegetable oil 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese In a bowl, mix the oats, flour, baking powder, salt, thyme, garlic powder, and pepper. In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and vegetable oil until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. Be careful not to overmix. Stir in the cheddar cheese. Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Pour the batter onto the skillet, cooking until bubbles form on the surface and a spatula slides easily under the pancake. Flip and cook until the other side is golden brown. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings.

These savory oatmeal recipes offer a variety of flavors and textures, making them perfect for breakfast or dinner. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a Three Pepper Pilaf or the complexity of a hearty stew, these dishes showcase the rich taste and nutritional benefits of oatmeal in savory dishes.

Conclusion

Oatmeal is more versatile than many realize, and these savory recipes are a testament to that. Each recipe offers a unique flavor profile and can be tailored to suit your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a satisfying main dish, there’s a savory oatmeal recipe here to inspire you.

So, next time you’re in the kitchen, give these recipes a try. You might find that oatmeal is just as at home in savory dishes as it is in your morning porridge. Happy cooking!