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Creamy Vanilla Steel-Cut Oats with Berry Almond Topping

Enjoy a nourishing and delightful bowl of Creamy Vanilla Steel-Cut Oats with Berry Almond Topping. This recipe takes the wholesome goodness of steel-cut oats and elevates it with the luxurious flavours of vanilla, the freshness of mixed berries, and the crunchy, nutty goodness of almonds. Perfect for those mornings when you need a filling, nutritious breakfast that doesn’t compromise on taste, this oatmeal dish promises a delightful start to your day.

The combination of creamy, slow-cooked oats with the vibrant, juicy burst of berries and almond butter’s rich, smooth touch is a symphony of textures and flavours. Whether you’re fuelling up for a busy day or savouring a slow morning, this oatmeal bowl is designed to satisfy your hunger and please your palate. So, grab your spoon and get ready to transform your breakfast routine with this simple yet sophisticated dish that’s sure to become a new favourite.

Diabetic-Friendly Aspects

Low Glycemic Ingredients: Steel-cut oats offer a slow release of glucose, aiding in blood sugar management.

High Fiber Content: Berries and almonds contribute to the meal’s fiber content, promoting steady blood sugar levels.

Healthy Fats: Almonds and almond butter provide monounsaturated fats, which can improve insulin sensitivity and heart health.

Lean Proteins: Steel-cut oats offer a good source of protein, supporting muscle mass and satiety.

Thyroid-Friendly Aspects

Rich in Antioxidants: Berries are packed with antioxidants that support thyroid health by reducing oxidative stress.

Low in Goitrogens: The recipe avoids ingredients high in goitrogens, promoting thyroid function.

Nutrient-Rich Ingredients: Steel-cut oats and almonds provide essential nutrients like selenium and zinc, crucial for thyroid health.

Balanced Macronutrient Profile

Calories: Approximately 250 kcal per serving.

Protein: Around 20g per serving.

Carbohydrates: Approximately 2g per serving.

Fat: Approximately 18g per serving.

Whether you’re seeking a nutritious breakfast option or a flavourful twist on your morning routine, Creamy Vanilla Steel-Cut Oats with Berry Almond Topping offers a satisfying and wholesome choice to start your day off right.

Basic Ingredients for Creamy Vanilla Steel-Cut Oats with Berry Almond Topping

Steel-Cut Oats:

Steel-Cut Oats: Chosen for their texture and nutritional value, steel-cut oats offer a chewier, more substantial bite than rolled or instant oats. They’re packed with fibre, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

Water or Milk: Water is the basic liquid for cooking oats, but using a blend with milk enhances the creaminess and richness of the oatmeal, adding a touch of sweetness and additional calcium.

Salt: A pinch of salt is crucial in savoury and sweet dishes alike, as it heightens other flavours, making the oatmeal taste more pronounced and balanced.

Vanilla Extract: Vanilla adds a comforting, warm flavour that pairs excellently with oats and berries, infusing the dish with a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth.

Toppings:

Mixed Berries: Berries add a fresh, tart contrast to the creamy oats, enriching the dish with antioxidants, vitamins, and vibrant colour.

Sliced Almonds: Almonds introduce a delightful crunch and nuttiness, plus they’re a great source of healthy fats, fibre, and protein.

Almond Butter: This adds a creamy, rich texture and nutty flavour, enhancing the overall mouthfeel and taste of the oatmeal while contributing healthy fats and protein.

alternative ingredients

Liquid: For a dairy-free option, any plant-based milk (like soy, oat, or coconut milk) can be substituted for milk.

Sweeteners: If more sweetness is desired, add maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar.

Nuts and Seeds: Swap sliced almonds for walnuts, pecans, or chia seeds for a different texture and nutritional profile.

Fruits: Besides berries, consider topping with banana slices, peach chunks, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries.

Preparation Tips for Creamy Vanilla Steel-Cut Oats with Berry Almond Topping

  • Overnight Soak: Soaking steel-cut oats overnight can reduce cooking time in the morning.
  • Stirring: Regular stirring helps prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom and ensures even cooking.
  • Texture Adjustment: If the oatmeal is too thick, add more liquid; if too thin, cook for a few additional minutes.

Serving Tips for Creamy Vanilla Steel-Cut Oats with Berry Almond Topping

  • Warmth: Serve the oatmeal warm to enhance the flavours and create a comforting meal.
  • Customisation: Allow each person to add their toppings, catering to individual tastes and dietary preferences.

storage tips

  • Refrigeration: Cool the oatmeal and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
  • Reheating: Add a little milk or water when reheating to bring back the creamy texture.
  • Freezing: Freeze in individual portions for a quick, convenient breakfast option. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat, adjusting the consistency as needed.

Creamy Vanilla Steel-Cut Oats with Berry Almond Topping

Servings: 2 people
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Ingredients 

Steel-cut Oats

  • 1 cup high-quality steel-cut oats
  • 3 cups water (or a mix of water and milk for a creamier texture)
  • a pinch of salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Toppings

  • mixed berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
  • almonds, sliced
  • almond butter

Instructions

  • Boil: In a medium saucepan, bring the water or water-milk mixture to a rolling boil.
  • Add Oats and Salt: Once boiling, gently stir in the steel-cut oats and a pinch of salt.
  • Simmer: Reduce the heat to maintain a low simmer. Stir in the vanilla extract. Allow the oats to cook for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent them from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
  • Check Consistency: The oatmeal is done when it has absorbed most of the liquid and has a texture that's creamy yet retains some bite.
  • Rest: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the oatmeal sit for a few minutes to thicken to your desired consistency.
  • Berry Almond Assembly: Spoon the oatmeal into bowls. Top each serving with a hearty portion of mixed berries, a dollop of almond butter, and a sprinkle of sliced almonds for a crunch.
  • Serve: Enjoy this bowl of creamy oatmeal warm, offering a delightful combination of sweet, tart berries, rich almond butter, and the nutty crunch of almonds, making for a satisfying and nutritious breakfast.

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