Oat groats are the whole, unprocessed kernels of oats, making them a powerhouse of nutrition and flavor. If you’re wondering how to cook oat groats, you’re in the right place! This guide will walk you through easy, tasty methods to prepare oat groats so you can enjoy their hearty texture and health benefits in your meals.
What Are Oat Groats?
Oat groats are the whole oat grains with only the outer hull removed. Unlike rolled oats or steel-cut oats, they are minimally processed, retaining more fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They have a nutty flavor and chewy texture, perfect for breakfast porridge, grain bowls, or even savory dishes.
Why Cook Oat Groats?
Cooking oat groats unlocks their digestibility and deliciousness. They provide sustained energy, are rich in fiber and protein, and support heart and digestive health. Plus, they are versatile and can be customized with your favorite toppings or mixed with vegetables for a wholesome meal.
How to Cook Oat Groats: Easy Methods
1. Stovetop Cooking (Classic and Reliable)
This is the most straightforward way to cook oat groats, giving you control over texture and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup oat groats
– 4 to 4½ cups water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor)
– A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Rinse the oat groats under cold water to remove any dust.
- In a medium saucepan, bring the water and salt to a boil.
- Add the oat groats, reduce heat to low, and cover with a lid.
- Simmer gently for 45 to 60 minutes, stirring occasionally. For chewier groats, cook closer to 45 minutes; for softer groats, cook up to 60 minutes.
- Once tender and most of the liquid is absorbed, remove from heat and let sit covered for 10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and serve warm with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, nuts, or fresh fruit.
2. Instant Pot Cooking (Quick and Hands-Off)
If you prefer a pressure cooker, the Instant Pot method is a great choice for tender oat groats without constant monitoring.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup oat groats
– 3 to 4 cups water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Rinse oat groats and add them to the Instant Pot with water and salt.
- Seal the lid and set the valve to sealing.
- Cook on high pressure for about 50 minutes.
- Allow natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then release any remaining pressure.
- If there’s still excess water, use the sauté function to simmer until absorbed.
- Serve warm with your favorite mix-ins.
3. Slow Cooker Method (Set and Forget)
For a no-fuss, slow-cooked oat groats breakfast or side dish:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup oat groats
– 3 to 4 cups water
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Rinse oat groats and place them in the slow cooker with water and salt.
- Cook on low for about 10 hours (overnight works great).
- Check the texture; if your slow cooker runs hot, this method may overcook the groats, so stove or Instant Pot might be better for you.
4. No-Cook Overnight Soak (Quick Prep for Busy Mornings)
If you want oat groats ready to eat without cooking in the morning, try soaking them overnight.
Instructions:
- Rinse 1 cup oat groats and place in a heatproof container.
- Pour boiling water over the groats to cover by at least 2 inches.
- Cover and let sit for at least 5 hours or overnight.
- Drain and rinse the soaked groats.
- Serve cold as a muesli-style dish or warm them gently in a saucepan with your favorite milk and toppings.
Tips for Perfect Oat Groats Every Time
– Rinse well: Always rinse oat groats before cooking to remove dust and improve flavor.
– Adjust liquid: Depending on your desired texture, add more water for softer groats or less for chewier ones.
– Flavor boost: Use broth instead of water or add spices like cinnamon or vanilla for a sweet dish, or garlic and herbs for savory meals.
– Rest after cooking: Letting groats sit covered off heat helps them absorb any remaining liquid and become fluffier.
– Batch cook: Cook a big batch and refrigerate or freeze portions for quick meals later.
Delicious Ways to Enjoy Oat Groats
– Breakfast porridge: Top with maple syrup, fresh berries, nuts, and a splash of milk or yogurt.
– Savory grain bowl: Mix cooked oat groats with sautéed vegetables, olive oil, and fresh herbs.
– Salads: Toss cooled oat groats with chopped veggies, lemon juice, and olive oil for a hearty salad.
– Soups and stews: Add oat groats to soups to thicken and add nutrition.
– Stuffed peppers: Use oat groats as a filling mixed with veggies and spices for baked stuffed peppers.
Oat groats are a nutritious, versatile whole grain that can be easily cooked with simple methods like stovetop, Instant Pot, slow cooker, or even soaked overnight. Experiment with flavors and textures to find your favorite way to enjoy this wholesome grain. Once you start cooking oat groats, you’ll love adding this hearty, healthy ingredient to your meals!