Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful savory breakfast bowl:
- Rolled Oats: 1 cup – Choose old-fashioned rolled oats for the best chewy texture; avoid instant oats as they can become mushy.
- Vegetable Broth or Water: 2 cups – Using vegetable broth adds a significant layer of savory flavor, but water works perfectly fine too.
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon – For sautéing the vegetables, adding a touch of healthy fat and flavor.
- Onion: 1/4 cup, finely chopped – Provides a foundational aromatic sweetness when sautéed.
- Garlic: 1-2 cloves, minced – Adds a pungent depth that complements the savory profile.
- Mushrooms: 1/2 cup, sliced or chopped – Offer an earthy, umami flavor and a slightly meaty texture. Cremini or white button mushrooms work well.
- Bell Pepper: 1/4 cup, finely chopped (any color) – Adds a touch of sweetness, vibrant color, and a pleasant crunch.
- Spinach: 1 large handful (about 1-2 cups loosely packed) – Wilts down beautifully, adding nutrients and color without overpowering the dish.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon, or to taste – Enhances all the other flavors. Adjust based on the saltiness of your broth.
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon, or to taste – Adds a gentle warmth and spice.
- Optional Toppings: See “How to Serve” section for ideas like a fried egg, avocado, hot sauce, nuts, or seeds.
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to cook your delicious savory oatmeal:
- Prepare the Aromatics and Veggies: Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it softens and becomes translucent.
- Sauté Vegetables: Add the minced garlic, chopped bell pepper, and sliced mushrooms to the saucepan. Continue to sauté for another 4-5 minutes, until the mushrooms release their liquid and the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Toast the Oats (Optional but Recommended): Push the vegetables to one side of the saucepan and add the rolled oats to the empty side. Toast the oats for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, until they become fragrant. This step enhances their nutty flavor. Then, mix the oats with the sautéed vegetables.
- Add Liquid and Seasoning: Pour in the vegetable broth or water. Add the salt and black pepper. Stir everything together well.
- Simmer the Oatmeal: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached your desired creamy consistency. The exact time can vary depending on the type of rolled oats used.
- Wilt the Spinach: Turn off the heat. Stir in the fresh spinach. The residual heat from the oatmeal will wilt the spinach perfectly within a minute or two.
- Taste and Adjust: Taste the oatmeal and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper according to your preference.
- Serve: Divide the savory oatmeal among bowls and add your favorite toppings immediately.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 300
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 10g