Rolled Oats Recipe- Indian Masala Oats with Peas & Ginger

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Rolled Oats Recipe: Indian Masala Oats with Peas & Ginger

Introduction

Okay, let’s be real – oats don’t always scream “exciting,” right? But trust me on this one. This Indian Masala Oats recipe with peas and ginger completely changed my mind about breakfast (and lunch, and dinner… seriously!). I first made this when I was craving something comforting and flavorful, but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and packed with all those warm, aromatic Indian spices we love. You’ll be surprised how much it tastes like a mini-khichdi!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average bowl of oatmeal. It’s a vibrant, savory dish that’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend breakfast. It’s healthy, filling, and incredibly flavorful. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies! It’s ready in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy mornings.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a batch of these delicious masala oats:

• 2 tbsp ghee
• 1 tsp cumin seeds
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 2 green chilies, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ tsp turmeric powder (haldi)
• ½ tsp chili powder (lal mirch)
• ½ tsp coriander powder (dhaniya powder)
• ½ tsp garam masala
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• 2 tbsp peas (frozen or fresh)
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, chopped for garnish

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips can make all the difference.

Ghee: Types and Substitutions
Ghee adds a beautiful richness to this dish. You can use any good quality ghee. If you don’t have ghee, you can substitute with vegetable oil or coconut oil, but the flavor won’t be quite the same. (Approx. 15ml ghee)

Cumin: Regional Variations & Flavor Profile
Cumin (jeera) is a staple in Indian cooking. It has a warm, earthy flavor. Roasting the cumin seeds lightly before adding them to the ghee intensifies their flavor.

Ginger: Fresh vs. Dried – Which to Use?
Fresh ginger is always best here. It has a bright, zesty flavor that dried ginger just can’t match. But if you’re in a pinch, you can use about ½ tsp of ginger powder. (Approx. 2.5cm ginger)

Green Chilies: Heat Levels & Deseeding Tips
Green chilies add a lovely kick! Adjust the number based on your spice preference. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds before chopping.

Spices (Turmeric, Chili Powder, Coriander Powder, Garam Masala): Quality & Blends
Good quality spices are key to a flavorful dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different brands to find your favorites. Garam masala blends vary, so taste yours and adjust accordingly. (Approx. 2.5ml each spice)

Rolled Oats: Quick-Cooking vs. Old-Fashioned – What’s the Difference?
I prefer using old-fashioned rolled oats for this recipe. They hold their shape better and have a chewier texture. Quick-cooking oats will work in a pinch, but you might need to reduce the cooking time slightly. (Approx. 80g rolled oats)

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. Start by heating the ghee in a kadai or deep pan over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the cumin seeds. Let them sizzle for a few seconds until they start to pop – that’s when you know the flavor is releasing.
2. Add the grated ginger and chopped green chilies. Sauté for about 30 seconds, until fragrant. Don’t let the ginger burn!
3. Now, toss in the chopped onion and bay leaf. Cook until the onions soften and turn translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Reduce the heat to low. Add the turmeric powder, chili powder, coriander powder, and garam masala. Sauté the spices for just a minute or so, stirring constantly, to prevent them from burning. This step is crucial for developing the flavor.
5. Add the chopped tomatoes and salt. Cook until the tomatoes break down and become mushy, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Stir in the peas and pour in the water. Bring the mixture to a boil.
7. Once boiling, add the rolled oats. Give everything a good stir to make sure the oats are evenly distributed.
8. Cover the pan and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the oats are cooked through and have absorbed most of the water.
9. Finally, garnish with fresh coriander leaves. Serve hot!

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the sautéing steps! Building the flavor in layers is what makes this dish so special.
• If the oats become too thick, add a little more water.
• For a creamier texture, you can add a tablespoon of yogurt or cream at the end.

Variations

• Vegan Masala Oats: Simply substitute the ghee with vegetable oil or coconut oil.
• Gluten-Free Considerations: Rolled oats are naturally gluten-free, but it’s always a good idea to check the packaging to ensure they haven’t been processed in a facility that also handles gluten.
• Spice Level Adjustment (Mild, Medium, Hot): Adjust the amount of chili powder and green chilies to your liking. Start with less and add more as needed.
• Festival Adaptation: Navratri-Friendly Version (Without Onion & Garlic): Skip the onion and use asafoetida (hing) instead for a similar savory flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Masala oats are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with a side of raita (yogurt dip) or your favorite pickle. A dollop of ghee on top never hurts either! My family loves it with a side of papadums.

Storage Instructions

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You might need to add a splash of water to loosen it up.

FAQs

What is the best type of oats to use for this recipe?
Old-fashioned rolled oats are my go-to! They have the best texture for this dish.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can definitely prep the ingredients ahead of time – chop the veggies, measure out the spices, etc. But I recommend cooking the oats fresh for the best flavor and texture.

How can I adjust the spice level to my preference?
Start with less chili powder and green chilies, and then add more to taste. You can always add spice, but it’s hard to take it away!

What can I serve with Masala Oats for a complete meal?
Raita, pickle, papadums, or a simple salad all make great accompaniments.

Is this recipe suitable for weight loss?
Absolutely! Oats are a healthy and filling food, and this recipe is packed with nutrients. Just be mindful of the amount of ghee you use.