Instant Pot Oat Groats Recipe

What Are Oat Groats?

Oat groats are the whole, unprocessed kernels of oats, which have been hulled but not refined. They are the most natural form of oats, retaining all of their nutritional value and fiber. Unlike rolled oats or instant oats, oat groats still contain the bran, germ, and endosperm, making them a powerhouse of nutrients.

Health Benefits

Oat groats are packed with health benefits, making them a great choice for anyone looking to improve their diet. Some key health benefits include:

High in Fiber: They are an excellent source of soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels, improve heart health, and regulate blood sugar levels.
Rich in Protein: It contain a significant amount of plant-based protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
Supports Digestive Health: The fiber inside promotes healthy digestion by helping to regulate bowel movements and prevent constipation.
Full of Nutrients: They are rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, and B vitamins, all of which play important roles in energy production, bone health, and nerve function.
Helps with Weight Management: Due to their high fiber content, oat groats help keep you feeling full longer, which can prevent overeating and aid in weight management.

Incorporating into your diet can be a simple and delicious way to boost your nutritional intake while enjoying the many health benefits they provide

Cooking Oat Groats in an Instant Pot: A Game-Changer

If you’re a fan of oat groats, the Instant Pot is a total game-changer when it comes to preparing them. Let me tell you why:

Speed and Convenience

Cooking the traditional way on the stovetop can take up to an hour. Who has time for that on a busy morning? The Instant Pot cuts that down to just 25-30 minutes, which is a total lifesaver. You just toss everything in, set the timer, and you’re good to go. No more hovering over the stove!

Nutrient Retention

The Instant Pot’s magical pressure cooking method helps lock in all the great nutrients in oat groats – the fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals that make them such a healthy choice. You end up with a bowl of oats that’s just as nourishing as if you had spent an hour cooking them.

So if you love these oats but not the long cooking time, definitely give the Instant Pot a try. It’s the easiest way to enjoy a hearty, nutritious breakfast without the fuss. Plus, you can make big batches ahead of time and reheat throughout the week. Win-win!

Ingredients for Instant Pot Oat Groats Recipe

Cooking in the Instant Pot requires very few ingredients, making it a simple and healthy meal.

Basic Ingredients

1 cup oat groats
3 cups water or broth (for added flavor)
Pinch of salt (optional)

Optional Add-ins for Flavor

You can enhance the flavor with various add-ins. Some popular options include:

A splash of vanilla extract or a cinnamon stick for a sweeter flavor.
A drizzle of olive oil or a dollop of butter for richness.
Fresh fruit, nuts, or seeds for texture and additional nutrients.

How to Cook Oat Groats in an Instant Pot

Cooking in an Instant Pot is straightforward and requires minimal effort. Follow these simple steps:

Step-by-Step Instructions

Rinse: Rinse 1 cup of oat groats under cold water to remove any dust or debris.
Add Ingredients to the Instant Pot: Add the rinsed oats to the Instant Pot along with 3 cups of water or broth and a pinch of salt (optional).
Seal and Cook: Close the lid, making sure the vent is sealed. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” function and set the timer for 25 minutes on high pressure.
Natural Pressure Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn the vent to release any remaining pressure.
Fluff and Serve: Open the lid, fluff the oat groats with a fork, and serve as desired.

Ideal Cooking Time and Pressure Settings

For oat groats, the ideal cooking time in the Instant Pot is 25 minutes on high pressure with a natural release. This will result in tender yet chewy oat groats. If you prefer a softer texture, you can add an additional 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.

Perfect Instant Pot Oat Groats: A Few Pro Tips

Cooking oats in the Instant Pot is super easy, but there are a couple little tricks that can take your results to the next level. Let me share them with you:

Texture Control: One of the best things about the Instant Pot is how much control you have over the texture. If you like your oat groats on the softer, creamier side, just add a little extra liquid – about 1/2 cup more water or broth. For a heartier, chewier texture, stick to the standard ratio of 1 cup oats to 3 cups liquid.

Avoid These Pitfalls A couple quick things to watch out for:

Don’t skip rinsing the oat groats first – this helps remove extra starch and prevents them from getting gloppy.
Make sure you use enough liquid. Oats soak up a lot, so not enough water or broth can leave you with dry, undercooked results.
Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes when the cook time is up. Rapid release can make the oats come out on the tough side.

Follow those simple tips, and you’ll be enjoying perfectly cooked, super creamy (or delightfully chewy!) oat groats every time. Customize the texture to your liking and enjoy!

Also Raed: Oat Groats vs. Steel-Cut Oats

Serving Suggestions

Okay, let’s talk about all the delicious ways you can enjoy oat groats! These whole oats are so versatile – you can go sweet or savory, breakfast or lunch. Let me share some of my favorite serving ideas:

Sweet and Cozy Oat Groats: For a comforting morning meal, try topping your them with fresh berries, sliced bananas, or diced apples. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup adds the perfect amount of sweetness. You can also sprinkle on some chopped nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.

And don’t be afraid to get a little creative with your spices! A dash of cinnamon or nutmeg really takes the flavor to the next level. A touch of vanilla extract is another great way to amp up the cozy factor.

Savory and Satisfying Oat Groats: Oat groats aren’t just for breakfast – they make an awesome base for hearty, veggie-packed meals too. Sauté up some spinach, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers, then stir them right into your cooked oats. A drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and pepper is all you need for a super satisfying lunch or side dish.

One of my favorite combos is topped with a fried egg and sliced avocado. The creaminess of the avocado paired with the runny yolk is just heavenly. Plus, you get a great boost of protein and healthy fats to keep you feeling full.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to oat groats! Whether you prefer sweet or savory, breakfast or lunch, these wholesome oats are such a versatile and nutritious ingredient to have in your repertoire.

FAQs

Can You Soak them Before Cooking?

Yes, soaking before cooking can reduce the cooking time and help improve their digestibility. Soaking them overnight in water or broth will soften the grains, allowing them to cook faster in the Instant Pot.

How Long Do Leftover Oat Groats Last?

Leftover cooked oat groats can last for up to 4-5 days when stored properly in the refrigerator in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can freeze them for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a little water or broth to bring back their creamy texture. To maintain their freshness, be sure to store them promptly after cooking and avoid leaving them at room temperature for extended periods.

Can I Use Oat Groats for Meal Prep?

Absolutely! They are an excellent option for meal prep because they can be cooked in large batches and stored for several days. You can prepare a big batch of oats in your Instant Pot, divide them into individual portions, and store them in the fridge or freezer. This makes it easy to grab a healthy breakfast or side dish throughout the week.