Easy Berry Cardamom Oats Recipe – Chia Seed Porridge

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Easy Berry Cardamom Oats Recipe – Chia Seed Porridge

Introduction

Good morning, friends! I’m so excited to share this recipe with you – it’s become a total staple in my kitchen, especially during these cooler months. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with flavour. I first made this Berry Cardamom Oats porridge on a particularly chilly morning, craving something both healthy and satisfying. It instantly became a favourite, and I knew I had to share it with all of you. It’s a beautiful blend of Indian spices with a classic breakfast favourite, and honestly, it just works.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any oatmeal. It’s a delightful fusion of flavours and textures! The creamy oats, the burst of sweet and tart berries, and the warm aroma of cardamom… it’s a little bowl of happiness. Plus, it’s super quick to make – perfect for busy weeknights or a leisurely weekend brunch. And did I mention it’s incredibly healthy? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious porridge:

• 1 cup Rolled Oats
• 2 ½ cups Unsweetened Almond Milk
• Pinch of Salt
• 1 tablespoon Chia Seeds
• 1 cup Mixed Berries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 teaspoons Maple Syrup
• ¼ teaspoon Ground Cardamom
• As needed Chopped Nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans – your choice!)
• As needed Non-dairy Yogurt (for extra creaminess)
• As needed Banana slices
• As needed Nut Butter (peanut, almond, cashew – go wild!)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Rolled Oats: Types & Texture

I prefer rolled oats (also called old-fashioned oats) for this recipe. They give the porridge a lovely, chewy texture. Quick-cooking oats will work in a pinch, but the porridge will be softer. Steel-cut oats take much longer to cook and aren’t ideal here.

Almond Milk: Choosing the Right Kind

Unsweetened almond milk is my go-to, as it lets the natural sweetness of the berries and maple syrup shine. But feel free to use any plant-based milk you like – soy, oat, or even coconut milk would be delicious!

Chia Seeds: Benefits & Alternatives

Chia seeds add a wonderful boost of omega-3s and fibre, and they help thicken the porridge beautifully. If you don’t have chia seeds, you can skip them, but the porridge won’t be quite as creamy. Flax seeds are a good substitute!

Cardamom: The Queen of Spices – Regional Variations & Flavor Profile

Cardamom is a cornerstone of Indian cuisine, and for good reason! It has such a complex, fragrant flavour. I use ground cardamom for convenience, but freshly ground is even better. In some regions of India, a pinch of saffron is also added to breakfast dishes for a luxurious touch.

Berries: Fresh vs. Frozen & Nutritional Value

Both fresh and frozen berries work wonderfully in this recipe. Frozen berries are often more affordable and just as nutritious. I usually keep a bag of mixed berries in the freezer for quick breakfasts like this.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, almond milk, and a pinch of salt. Bring it to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir constantly for about 3-5 minutes. This is where the magic happens – the oats will start to thicken and become creamy.
3. Now, stir in the chia seeds and continue cooking for another 3-5 minutes, stirring frequently. This will help the chia seeds plump up and create an even creamier texture.
4. While the oats are cooking, let’s make the berry compote. In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, maple syrup, and cardamom.
5. Cover the saucepan and cook over medium heat for 3-5 minutes, or until the berries have softened and released their juices.
6. Divide the porridge into bowls, spoon over the warm berry mixture, and add your favourite toppings!

Expert Tips

• Don’t walk away from the saucepan while the oats are cooking! Stirring prevents sticking and ensures a creamy texture.
• If the porridge gets too thick, add a splash more almond milk.
• For a richer flavour, toast the oats in a dry pan for a few minutes before adding the milk.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: This recipe is already naturally vegan! Just ensure your maple syrup is 100% pure.
• Gluten-Free Confirmation: Rolled oats are naturally gluten-free, but if you have a severe gluten intolerance, look for oats that are certified gluten-free.
• Spice Level Adjustment (Cardamom): If you’re not a huge fan of cardamom, start with a smaller amount (⅛ teaspoon) and adjust to your taste.
• Quick Weekday Version: Use quick-cooking oats and reduce the cooking time accordingly.
• Festival Adaptation (Makar Sankranti/Lohri Inspired): Add a spoonful of gur (jaggery) to the berry compote for a traditional Makar Sankranti or Lohri flavour. My grandmother always added a touch of gur to her winter breakfasts!

Serving Suggestions

This porridge is delicious on its own, but feel free to get creative with toppings! I love adding:

• A dollop of non-dairy yogurt for extra creaminess.
• Sliced bananas for natural sweetness.
• A sprinkle of chopped nuts for crunch.
• A swirl of nut butter for healthy fats and flavour.

Storage Instructions

Leftover porridge can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of almond milk if needed. The berry compote can also be stored separately for up to 3 days.

FAQs

What is the best type of oats to use for porridge?

Rolled oats are my favourite! They have a great texture and cook up nicely.

Can I make this recipe with other types of milk?

Absolutely! Soy, oat, or coconut milk all work well.

Can I prepare this porridge ahead of time?

Yes, you can! Make the porridge and berry compote separately and store them in the fridge. Reheat and combine when you’re ready to eat.

How can I adjust the sweetness of the berry compote?

Add more or less maple syrup to taste. You can also use other sweeteners like honey or agave nectar.

What are the health benefits of adding chia seeds to oatmeal?

Chia seeds are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fibre, and antioxidants. They’re great for your heart, digestion, and overall health!

Is cardamom traditionally used in Indian breakfast dishes?

Yes, absolutely! Cardamom is a very common spice in Indian desserts and beverages, and it’s often used in breakfast dishes as well, especially during festivals and celebrations.