Name: Oat Groats
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 cup oat groats (rinsed); 2 cups water or broth; pinch salt (optional)

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Have you ever tried cooking with oat groats? These wholesome grains have a unique texture and flavor that can transform any meal. I remember the first time I prepared Oat Groats; it was a chilly evening, and I was searching for something hearty yet nutritious. As I rinsed the groats under cold water, the soothing sound of running water set a calming tone for the rest of my cooking. I had never realized how much versatility these little grains could offer, and I was excited to discover just how delicious they could be with the right ingredients. The aroma of cooking oat groats filled my kitchen, making it a cozy haven that I couldn’t wait to share with my family.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
35 mins

Prep Time:
5 mins

Cook Time:
30 mins

Difficulty:
Easy

Calories:
150 kcal

Protein:
6 g

Diet:
Keto, Paleo, Whole30

Fat:
3 g

Tools Used:
Instant Pot

What’s Great About This Oat Groats

Nutritious and Wholesome

Oat groats are among the healthiest grains you can include in your diet. They are packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals that contribute to your overall well-being. Just one serving of Oat Groats provides a hearty dose of nutrients that can help keep you feeling satisfied and energized throughout the day.

Versatile Ingredient

You can use oat groats in various dishes, from breakfast bowls to savory dinners. I love incorporating them into salads, soups, and even as a base for grain bowls. Their chewy texture makes them an exciting addition to any meal!

Easy to Prepare

Cooking Oat Groats is incredibly straightforward. Whether you use an Instant Pot or a stovetop method, the process is simple and quick. You can prepare a delicious and filling meal in no time, perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends.

Great for Meal Prep

One of my favorite things about oat groats is how well they store. You can prepare a large batch and keep them in the fridge for several days. They make an excellent addition to your meal prep routine, ready to grab and go when you need a nourishing option.

Budget-Friendly

In today’s world, choosing affordable and nutritious ingredients is crucial. Oat groats are budget-friendly, allowing you to enjoy delicious meals without breaking the bank. Plus, they provide great value for their nutritional benefits.

Shopping List for Oat Groats

When it comes to making Oat Groats, the ingredients you choose play a significant role in the final dish’s flavor and texture. The core ingredients are simple but effective, with each component contributing to the dish’s warmth and heartiness. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need to create this wholesome meal.

1 cup oat groats, rinsed: These little gems are the star of the show, providing a chewy texture that’s wonderfully satisfying.
2 cups water or broth: This will be the cooking liquid that infuses flavor into the oat groats, making them deliciously moist.
Pinch salt, optional: A pinch of salt can enhance the overall flavor profile, but it can be omitted if you prefer.

Cooking Instructions for Oat Groats

Cooking Oat Groats is an enjoyable process that fills your kitchen with inviting aromas. Whether you’re using an Instant Pot or opting for a traditional stovetop method, you’ll find that each step is simple and rewarding. Let’s get started on this delicious journey!

Rinse the Groats: Begin by rinsing your oat groats under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer. This step is crucial as it helps remove any dust or debris that may have settled on the grains. Observe how the water runs clear, indicating that your groats are fresh and ready to cook.
Add to Instant Pot: Transfer the rinsed groats to the Instant Pot insert. Pour in the water or broth and sprinkle in a pinch of salt if you desire. At this point, you can marvel at the simplicity of the ingredients coming together.

Pressure Cook: Secure the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on Manual/High Pressure for 30 minutes. As the pressure builds, feel free to take a moment to appreciate the anticipation of a hearty meal on its way.
Quick Release: Once the cooking time is complete, carefully choose the quick-release method to release any remaining pressure. The sound of the steam escaping is a satisfying confirmation that your Oat Groats are almost ready.
Stir and Serve: Open the lid and take a moment to inhale the fragrant aroma. Stir the cooked groats with a spoon, ensuring they’re fluffy and well-cooked. If there’s any excess liquid, drain it off. Now, your warm and nutritious Oat Groats are ready to be enjoyed!

Things Worth Knowing

Cooking time: The timing for cooking Oat Groats can vary based on the method you choose. Instant Pot cooks can expect it to take about 30 minutes, while stovetop methods may take 45 to 50 minutes.
Rinse before cooking: Always rinse your oat groats thoroughly. This can significantly improve the texture and taste of your final dish.
Adjusting liquid ratios: If you prefer creamier groats, consider adjusting your liquid ratio. A 1:2 or even 1:3 ratio of groats to liquid can yield a softer texture.

Storage tips: Cooked oat groats can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat with a splash of water or broth for best results.

Expert Tips about Oat Groats

Cooking Oat Groats can be a rewarding experience when you have the right tips to guide you. Here are some expert insights to ensure your dish turns out perfect every time.

Storage: Cooked oat groats store well in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for 2 to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore the original texture.

Freezing: To freeze, cool the cooked groats completely, then transfer them to airtight containers or freezer bags. This way, you’ll always have a healthy option ready to go.
Pairing: Oat groats work wonderfully with various toppings, such as sautéed vegetables, herbs, or a drizzle of olive oil. Feel free to experiment with flavors that you love.
Variations: Adjust the liquid in the recipe for creamier oat groats. For a richer texture, try using a 1:3 ratio of groats to liquid.

Cooking Method: Although the Instant Pot is my favorite, you can easily cook oat groats on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, making them versatile for any kitchen setup.

What Goes Well With This Oat Groats

When it comes to serving Oat Groats, the possibilities are endless. Here are some ideas to inspire your next meal:

Salads: Add cooked oat groats to your favorite salads for extra texture and nutrition.

Grain Bowls: Layer them with roasted vegetables, greens, and a protein source for a satisfying grain bowl.
Soups: Incorporate oat groats into soups to enhance their heartiness and flavor.
Breakfast: Serve as a warm breakfast bowl topped with fruits, nuts, or honey for a wholesome start to your day.

Meal Prep: Prepare a big batch and store it for quick meals throughout the week, making it easy to eat healthy.

FAQ

Oat groats are the whole grain form of oats, meaning they are the least processed and retain all parts of the grain, including the bran, germ, and endosperm. This makes them a nutritious choice, offering high levels of fiber, protein, and essential nutrients. Unlike rolled or instant oats, oat groats have a chewy texture and require a longer cooking time. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups to salads, and are an excellent base for grain bowls.

Cooking oat groats is simple. You can use an Instant Pot for a quick method or the stovetop for a more traditional approach. For the Instant Pot, rinse the groats and add them to the pot with water or broth. Cook on high pressure for about 30 minutes, followed by a quick release. If using the stovetop, simmer the rinsed groats in boiling water for approximately 45 to 50 minutes until they are tender yet chewy. It’s important to rinse them beforehand to ensure they are clean and ready for cooking.

Absolutely! One of the great benefits of oat groats is that they can be made in advance. You can prepare a big batch and store the cooked groats in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze them for 2 to 3 months. To reheat, just add a splash of water or broth to restore their texture. This makes them a fantastic option for meal prep, allowing you to have a healthy grain ready for any meal throughout the week.

Oat groats themselves are naturally gluten-free, but cross-contamination can occur during processing. If you have gluten sensitivity or celiac disease, it’s important to choose certified gluten-free oat groats to ensure they haven’t been contaminated with gluten-containing grains. These certified oats are processed in dedicated gluten-free facilities and can be enjoyed safely.

Conclusion

In summary, Oat Groats are a delightful and easy-to-make dish that can elevate any meal. Their nutritional benefits, versatility, and heartiness make them a wonderful choice for those seeking healthy options. I encourage you to try cooking them; you might just find a new favorite grain in your kitchen!

Oat Groats

The ultimate comfort food! Oat Groats are healthy, hearty, and easy to prepare. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, providing a warm and nourishing meal that everyone will love. Make it tonight for a delightful experience!

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Prep Time 5

Cook Time 30

Total Time 35

Course Side Dishes

Cuisine American

Servings 4 servings

Calories 150 kcal

Equipment

Instant Pot

Ingredients

1 cup oat groats rinsed
2 cups water or broth
pinch salt optional

Instructions

Rinse the Groats: Give your oat groats a good rinse under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer to remove any dust or debris.
Add to Instant Pot: Place the rinsed groats in the Instant Pot insert. Add the water or broth and a pinch of salt if using.

Pressure Cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on Manual/High Pressure for 30 minutes.
Quick Release: Choose the quick-release method to quickly release any remaining pressure.
Stir and Serve: Open the lid, stir with a spoon, and drain any excess liquid if needed. Serve.

Notes

Storage: Cooked oat groats store well in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for 2-3 months. Reheat with a splash of water or broth to restore texture.
Nutrition: Nutrition calculation does not include the optional toppings.
Cooking Time: The cooking time does not include the time for the pressure cooker to pressurize.
Recipe Variations: Adjust the liquid used in the recipe for creamier cooked oat groats. This recipe uses a 1:2 ratio. For a creamier texture, use 1:3.

Stovetop Method: Rinse the Groats. Rinse under cold water as above. Boil the Liquid. In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water or broth to a boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt if desired. Add Groats and Simmer. Stir in the rinsed oat groats, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally. Check for doneness—they should be tender but still chewy.