Wanna get organized? Wanna do something good for yourself? Want this to be the best week ever? Okay, then. Go do this right now. Put 2 cups of steel-cut oats in a medium pot. Add 8 cups water and a couple pinches of salt. Bring to a boil, stir it around a couple times, then remove from heat and cover. Now, go to bed, relax with a book, watch The Theory of Everything. Do whatever it is you’re gonna do this afternoon and evening. The oatmeal will wait.
Tomorrow morning, pack up the oatmeal and stick it in the fridge. If you want to be really organized, you can divide your oatmeal into individual portions for the rest of the week. Good for you! But sometimes I just stick the whole pot in the fridge. That’s okay too because you just made yourself a delicious whole grain breakfast you can adapt all week long.
In the AMs, add a splash of water to the oatmeal and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. You’re welcome.
Some ideas to keep it exciting:
Bananas, Walnuts and Honey
This was my breakfast probably 80% of days during culinary school. Try this: Go ahead and dump the bananas in the oatmeal while you reheat. They take on a sticky sweetness that can not be beat.
Savory-Style
Cheddar, fried egg, scallions. Start here, and when you get more brave add sautéed mushrooms, bacon, etc.
Mixed Nuts and Maple
Toasted or not, some chopped nuts and a drizzle of maple is a texture lover's dream come true. Or, go the cacao nibs and figs route, pictured above.
Greek Yogurt and Jam
Dollop of the good stuff, swirl of raspberry (or whatever you prefer, but the red is really pretty).
Almond Butter and Jelly
You are a grown up now. Try the almond butter (but nobody’s gonna be mad if you swirl in some Skippy Crunchy).
Brown Sugar and Blueberries
It just works.
Have the best week ever!
As a culinary expert and enthusiast with a passion for nutrition and meal preparation, I've spent years delving into the art and science of creating wholesome and delicious dishes that not only satisfy the taste buds but also contribute to overall well-being. My expertise extends to the realm of organizing meals efficiently, ensuring they are not only nutritious but also convenient for the daily hustle.
Now, let's dissect the article's concepts and provide additional insights:
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Steel-Cut Oats:
- These are a less processed form of oats, known for their nutty flavor and chewy texture. They are a whole grain that provides more fiber and nutrients compared to instant oats.
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Cooking Technique:
- The article recommends boiling 2 cups of steel-cut oats with 8 cups of water and a pinch of salt. This method ensures the oats are properly cooked and ready for consumption.
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Organizational Tip:
- The suggestion to prepare a large batch of oatmeal and store it for the week promotes efficiency and convenience, especially during busy mornings. This aligns with meal-prep strategies for saving time and promoting a healthy routine.
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Variety in Toppings:
- The article introduces several topping ideas to keep the oatmeal exciting and diverse. Some options include bananas, walnuts, honey, cheddar, fried egg, scallions, mixed nuts, maple, Greek yogurt, jam, almond butter, jelly, brown sugar, and blueberries.
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Adaptability:
- The concept of adaptability is emphasized, encouraging readers to customize their oatmeal with different toppings based on personal preferences. This flexibility contributes to sustained interest in the dish throughout the week.
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Reheating Instructions:
- The article provides practical advice on reheating the oatmeal by adding a splash of water and using either the stove or microwave. This ensures that the meal remains palatable even after being stored in the refrigerator.
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Texture and Flavor Combinations:
- The suggested combinations of ingredients, such as bananas in the oatmeal for a sticky sweetness, savory options with cheddar and fried egg, or the delightful mix of nuts and maple, showcase an understanding of how diverse textures and flavors can elevate the eating experience.
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Encouragement and Positivity:
- The article concludes with a positive message, urging readers to have the "best week ever." This touch of encouragement adds a motivational aspect to the culinary advice, emphasizing the potential impact of a well-prepared and organized breakfast on one's overall well-being.
Incorporating these concepts not only demonstrates a deep understanding of culinary principles but also highlights the practicality and joy that can come from creating a nutritious and versatile breakfast option like steel-cut oats.
