Before MOMeo Magazine reader, Sophfronia Scott, shared her favorite recipe for overnight crockpot oatmeal using steel cut oats, we had never heard of steel cut oats. We were frankly a little skeptical and intrigued by these magical little oats that never went mushy, even when cooked ahead of time and stored in the fridge.
So we decided to put steel cut oats to the test. Not only were steel cut oats fantastic for making ahead of time and storing in the fridge, they could also be left to cook overnight in a crockpot. Don’t try that trick with ordinary rolled or quick oats (eww).
A little online research showed that steel cut oats were a favorite with many health experts because unlike their processed cousins that have very little nutritional value, steel cut oats are high in fiber, low in fat, a good source of protein and contain all sorts of vitamins and minerals.
Since then, steel cut oats has become a staple in our morning routine. Every Sunday, we cook up a batch of plain Steel Cut Oat and Chia Seed Surprise and store in the fridge for quick breakfasts every morning.
Check out the ridiculously easy recipe below for ideas on how to create your very own Steel Cut Oat and Chia Seed Surprise!
Steel Cut Oat and Chia Seed Surprise
3 cups of water
1 cup of steel cut oats
2 tablespoons of chia seeds
Bring the water to a boil.
Mix the chia seeds into the steel cut oats to prevent the chia seeds from clumping together before adding to the boiling water. Add the steel cut oats and chia seeds and bring it back to a boil.
Simmer covered for 14 to 22 minutes depending on how chewy you like your steel cut oats. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the fridge. Note: add a little milk if reheating without frozen fruit or berries.
Top with your choice of surprise:
Fresh or frozen fruit
Yogurt
Brown sugar, honey or maple syrup
Nuts
Favorite surprise combination: steel cut oats reheated in the microwave with frozen blueberries and blackberries and topped with vanilla yogurt!
