We all like to experiment in the kitchen and whip something ‘exclusive’ for the family. As you head for the cheese slices in your fridge, that bag of oats calls you out from behind. You quickly shut the oats out and as you are about to pick the cheese, your waistline starts to struggle to breathe in that tightly buttoned jeans. Ah, looks like it IS time to head for the oats. So long, cheese slice. You close the refrigerator with a heavy heart and pick the bag of oats.
A bowl of oatmeal does not look appetizing at all, that we all can agree on. But, oats are so healthy and packed with nutrients that they should be included in your diet in some way. So we picked out 5 mouth-watering Indian recipes that can be made with oats. Mind you, they are addictive when seasoned correctly.
Table of Contents
1) Oats Idli
Oats idlis are very instant and easy to make. All you need is a coarsely ground cup of oats (you can use oats flour too), semolina, curd, and some simple spices. Add some roasted chana dal to increase the crunch quotient of the idlis. Steaming them might take a little longer than your regular idlis, but the results are worth it. You can temper them with curry leaves and mustard seeds. Serve with a spicy sambar, a thick coconut chutney or a tomato-peanut chutney.
Image for representational purpose only
2) Oats Upma
Packaged masala oats are quite popular in the market and very tasty too. So, why not create a bowl of masala oats upma at home? A few veggies, some zesty masalas and a cup of rolled oats are all you need to satisfy your healthy breakfast needs. Squeeze half a lemon and add some sev on top for that zing!
Image for representational purpose only
3) Oats Dosa
A crisp and thin dosa in the times of quarantine sounds like a beautiful (and unachievable) dream. Let me tell you, you’re wrong. It’s possible and can be achieved with healthier ingredients. Making a perfectly crisp dosa at home with your regular non-stick tawa is an art in itself, but making it with oats is even more commendable. Use rice flour and oats flour in equal quantities. Add chopped onions to it, if you wish to. Enjoy with a bowl of sambar and some lip-smacking chutneys. Serve them immediately, as they get soggy too soon.
Tip – Make sure the batter is in flowing consistency. If it’s too thick, it won’t spread evenly. If it’s too thin, you won’t be able to flip it.
Image for representational purpose only
4) Oats Anda Bhurji
The taste of an anda bhurji (Masala scrambled eggs) with some butter bread and chai is an ideal anytime-any day meal. Make the usual onion-tomato-green chili masala for the bhurji and add a handful of toasted rolled oats to your scrambled egg mix before pouring it into the pan. Quickly take it off the heat once the eggs are done. Do not overcook the bhurji as it might become chewy.
Image for representational purpose only
5) Oats Kheer
One of the quickest kheers to make is an oats kheer. This can be made under 30 minutes and we can guarantee there will be no leftovers. Roast the oats in ghee, add full cream milk and let it cook on a slow flame for 15 minutes. Crush a green cardamom pod and add in the mix for fragrant results. Add sugar or jaggery according to your taste. Once done, chill in the refrigerator for an hour. Add lots of dry fruits on top before serving. If you love kheer, you would also love our post on how to make kheer with leftover rice.
Image for representational purpose only
Have you tried any of these Indianised oats recipes or do you like sticking to the same old bowl of oatmeal?
Oats That You Will Love!
Here is a list of best brands of oats that are available online.
1. JIWA Rolled Oats
- Ingredients – 100% Australian oats
- 100 grams of these rolled oats provide 389 Kcal of energy.
2. Quaker Oats
- 1 Kg pack
- 100 grams of these rolled oats provide 407 Kcal of energy.
3. Kellogg’s Oats
- 2 Kg pack.
- 100 grams of these rolled oats provide 379 Kcal of energy.
4. Saffola Oats
- Saffola oats are made from 100% natural wholegrain
5. True Elements
- 100 grams of these rolled oats provide 363 Kcal of energy.
- No artificial colors and preservatives.
6. Bagrry’s White Oats
- 100 grams of these rolled oats provide 397 Kcal of energy.
- No added salt, sugar or preservatives.
7. Eco Valley Hearty White Oats
- 100 grams of these rolled oats provide 379 Kcal of energy.
- Allergen information – Product packaged in a facility that uses wheat products and milk solids.
Out of ideas for your next meal? Worry not, we’ve got your back! A set of fresh ideas and suggestions to keep your menus interesting! Read these posts to help you choose what to cook for the next meal using regular staples like atta, suji, moong dal, rice and potatoes. We will also give you tips on how to use common condiments like mayonnaise and spices like jeera and turmeric in your diet to maximise the usage of everyday products.
About The Author
Nishtha Asrani Sethi, born and brought up in Delhi, is a content writer who has previously worked with NDTV and Resolver. Her roots are deep within the food industry, thanks to her family business and a keen interest in contemporary food products. Nishtha loves to serve her articles with a side of humor. Her Bachelor’s degree in Home Science comes in handy while researching the science behind the food. When she is not trying to win a battle of fries vs fruit with her daughter, she is busy experimenting with her huge joint family with crazy recipes.
