Irish Oatmeal by Marichu Coning
Irish oatmeal also known as Steel cut oats or Scottish oatmeal was known as a "peasant food" long before. Its popularity now, among poor and rich alike, cannot be put to question due to its health benefits. How it differs from rolled oats and instant oatmeal is what makes it more favorable to many, especially the healthy conscious. It requires very minimal or no processing at all than the two oats so, it is high in fiber, proteins, calcium and vitamin B. Study also reveals that it helps a lot to lower cholesterol level. Though it also has its drawback, taking a long time to cook, it is well worth the patience since you can have a nuttier and more chewy flavor for a finished product. Irish oatmeal is not only a favorite for breakfast but is popular for baked goods now. There are some steps that can be useful when cooking Steel cut oats to come up with the best result. Yes, it is time-consuming but simple and pays off with great satisfaction.
Directions:
Start this step in the evening before retiring to bed. Gather all the following ingredients:
Water base:
1 cup Irish oatmeal
4 cups water
4 tbsp sugar
choice of frozen fruits like berries and peaches
Milk base:
1 cup Irish oatmeal
4 cups milk
salt to taste
1½ reserved milk
fresh fruits (optional)
When using water- Put water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Add oatmeal and set heat on high. Continue cooking while stirring from time to time until it starts to thicken. Scrape bottom when it sticks. This takes about 5 to 8 minutes. Reduce the heat to its lowest and continue to simmer for 30 minutes while stirring from time to time. Notice that it stops sticking when nearing the 30 minute time. Remove from heat after about 30 to 35 minutes when you noticed the right consistency which is thick and creamy but not dry. Stir in 3 to 4 tablespoons of brown sugar and the fruit of your choice like berries or peaches if you prefer. Opt for it for a more healthy end product. Let it cool for about 15 minutes. Transfer into an airtight container and store in the refrigerator overnight. In the morning it set and can be divided into 4 cuts. Get a portion and put drops of water and stir. You can microwave it for a minute on high setting and stir again. Put back in the microwave and cook for 30 seconds more. On a stove top, heat for 5 minutes while stirring. Add milk if preferred and serve hot.
When using milk - Put all ingredients in a saucepan. Cover and put in the refrigerator so the shell of the oats soften because of the milk. In the morning, take out from the refrigerator and heat on a stove top for 5 minutes while stirring to prevent from sticking. Remove from heat and let it stand for some minutes. Stir in reserved milk to avoid build up of crust and more flavorful. Add in fresh peach, apples or ripe mangoes.
There you have them. They are really great for breakfast or snacks and so nutritious, not only for the kids but for the olds alike. So, why not start your day right and healthy? Try them, they are so rewarding and you will realize that longer time spent doesn't really matter in the end.
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