Masala Oats is a savory twist on traditional oats, made with vegetables, spices, and rolled oats. It’s a warm, hearty, and comforting one-pot meal perfect for a quick, healthy breakfast or light lunch/dinner.
📝 Ingredients (2 servings)
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- 1 cup rolled oats (plain, not flavored)
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- 2 tsp oil or ghee
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- ½ tsp cumin seeds
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- 1 onion, finely chopped
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- 1 tomato, chopped
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- ½ carrot, diced
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- ¼ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
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- ½ tsp turmeric powder
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- ½ tsp red chili powder
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- ½ tsp garam masala
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- Salt to taste
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- 2 ½ cups water (adjust for consistency)
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- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
👨🍳 Instructions
1.Prep the Veggies:
Chop all your vegetables finely for quick cooking.
2.Sauté the Base:
Heat oil in a pan. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3.Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Add tomatoes and cook till soft. Add turmeric, red chili powder, and salt. Stir well.
4.Add Veggies:
Toss in carrots and peas (and any other vegetables you like). Sauté for 2-3 minutes.
5.Add Oats and Water:
Add the rolled oats and water. Mix well and cook on medium flame for about 5–7 minutes until oats are soft and cooked.
6.Final Touch:
Add garam masala, adjust salt, stir, and let it simmer for 1 more minute.
Serve: Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot. Add a squeeze of lemon if you like tang.
❌ Common Mistakes
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- Using flavored oats: Stick to plain rolled oats to control salt and spice levels.
- Too much water: Makes the dish soggy — always add gradually.
- Skipping sauté step: Cooking onions and spices properly gives depth of flavor.
- Overcooking oats: They become mushy — cook just until soft.
💬 FAQs
Q1: Can I use instant oats?
Yes, but reduce the cooking time and water slightly. Texture may vary.
Q2: Is masala oats vegan?
Yes, if made with oil and no ghee or dairy.
Q3: Can I add milk?
Not recommended for this savory recipe — stick to water or veggie broth.
Q4: What veggies work best?
Carrot, peas, beans, capsicum, spinach, corn — anything quick-cooking.
Q5: Is it healthy?
Absolutely! High fiber, low fat, customizable — great for weight watchers.
🥄 Healthy Variations
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- Use olive oil or skip oil and cook with water for low-cal version.
- Add tofu cubes or chickpeas for protein boost.
- Sprinkle flax or chia seeds on top.