- Cook oats in 1/2 cup water over medium heat until thickened, stirring occasionally. Let cool.
- Combine cooked oats, chopped apple, milk, dates, and honey (if using) in a blender. Blend until smooth.
- Pour into a glass, garnish with apple pieces if desired, and serve chilled.
- Calories:300 kcal25%
- Energy:1255 kJ22%
- Protein:8 g28%
- Carbohydrates:58 mg40%
- Sugar:35 mg8%
- Salt:50 g25%
- Fat:5 g20%
Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh
Apple Oats Recipe – Quick & Easy Indian Breakfast Smoothie
Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, mornings can be… hectic. Between getting ready and tackling the day, a quick, healthy breakfast is a must. And honestly? This Apple Oats Smoothie has become my absolute go-to. It’s packed with goodness, tastes amazing, and takes just minutes to whip up. I first made this when I was trying to sneak more oats into my diet, and the apple flavour makes it so incredibly delicious, you’d never know it’s good for you!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This isn’t just another smoothie recipe. It’s a little slice of Indian-inspired goodness, perfect for starting your day. It’s super quick – seriously, 5 minutes is all you need! It’s also incredibly nourishing, giving you a boost of energy to power through your morning. Plus, it’s naturally sweet and satisfying, making it a great alternative to sugary cereals or pastries.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delightful Apple Oats Smoothie:
- 2 tbsp Oats (approximately 30g)
- 1 Apple
- 0.75-1 cup Milk (approximately 180-240ml) – I’ll talk more about milk choices below!
- 3 Dates
- 2 tsp Honey (optional)
Ingredient Notes
Let’s chat about these ingredients for a sec, because choosing the right ones can really elevate this smoothie!
Oats: Oats are a fantastic breakfast choice in Indian cuisine. They’re incredibly versatile and provide sustained energy. They’re also a good source of fibre, which keeps you feeling full and satisfied.
Dates: Dates are a staple in Indian sweets and snacks, and for good reason! They add natural sweetness and a lovely caramel-like flavour. You can use different varieties – Medjool dates are wonderfully soft and plump, while Kimia dates have a slightly drier texture. I personally love using a mix!
Milk: Milk preferences vary across India. Cow’s milk is the most common, but buffalo milk is richer and creamier. For a lighter option, almond milk works beautifully too. Feel free to use whatever you prefer – it’s your smoothie!
Step-By-Step Instructions
Alright, let’s get blending!
- First, cook the oats in about ½ cup (120ml) of water over medium heat. Stir occasionally until they thicken up – this usually takes around 3-5 minutes. Let it cool down a bit.
- Now, add the cooked oats, chopped apple, milk, dates, and honey (if you’re using it) to your blender.
- Blend everything together until it’s beautifully smooth and creamy. If it’s too thick, add a splash more milk.
- Pour into a glass, and if you’re feeling fancy, garnish with a few extra apple pieces.
- Serve chilled and enjoy!
Expert Tips
Want to make this smoothie even better? Here are a few of my go-to tricks:
- Consistency is key: If you like a thicker smoothie, use less milk. For a thinner one, add more!
- Prep ahead: You can cook the oats the night before and store them in the fridge. This will save you even more time in the morning.
- Soak the dates: If your dates are a little dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before blending. This will make them softer and easier to blend.
Variations
This recipe is super adaptable! Here are a few ways to switch things up:
- Vegan Adaptation: Simply swap the honey for maple syrup or agave nectar, and use your favourite plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk all work great!). My friend, Priya, swears by using coconut milk for an extra tropical flavour.
- Gluten-Free Confirmation: Oats are naturally gluten-free, but if you’re coeliac or have a severe gluten intolerance, make sure to use certified gluten-free oats.
- Spice it up: A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom adds a lovely warming flavour. I sometimes add a tiny dash of nutmeg too!
Festival Adaptations
During festivals like Navratri, many people avoid grains. You can easily adapt this recipe by omitting the dates, and adding a little extra apple or a small piece of banana for sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
This smoothie is delicious on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with other Indian breakfast staples. Try it alongside a small bowl of poha (flattened rice) or upma (semolina porridge) for a complete and satisfying breakfast.
Storage Instructions
This smoothie is best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. It might separate a little, so just give it a good stir before drinking.
FAQs
Got questions? I’ve got answers!
Can I use frozen apples in this recipe? Absolutely! Frozen apples will make the smoothie even colder and thicker.
What is the best type of oats to use – rolled oats or quick oats? Both work well! Rolled oats will give you a slightly chewier texture, while quick oats will blend more smoothly.
Can I make this smoothie ahead of time? You can, but the texture might change slightly. It’s best to add the milk just before blending for the freshest flavour.
Is honey necessary, or can I use another sweetener? Honey is optional! You can use maple syrup, agave nectar, or even a few drops of stevia if you prefer.
How can I adjust the sweetness level of this smoothie? Start with less honey and taste as you go. You can always add more if needed. The sweetness of the dates and apple will also contribute to the overall flavour.