Burnt Garlic Oats Recipe – Easy Indian Savory Oatmeal Breakfast

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Burnt Garlic Oats Recipe – Easy Indian Savory Oatmeal Breakfast

Okay, let’s be real. Oats for breakfast? Sounds a little…plain, right? But trust me on this one. This isn’t your grandma’s oatmeal. This Burnt Garlic Oats recipe is a total game-changer – savory, comforting, and packed with flavour. I first stumbled upon this when I was craving something warm and quick on a busy weekday, and now it’s a regular in my kitchen! It’s seriously addictive.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is all about simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. It’s unbelievably quick – ready in under 10 minutes! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in a healthy and satisfying breakfast, even when you’re short on time. The burnt garlic butter takes it from basic oats to a whole new level of deliciousness. Honestly, once you try it, you’ll be hooked.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this magic happen:

• ½ cup quick cooking oats (about 40g)
• 1 ½ cups water (360ml)
• Seasoning of choice (see ingredient notes below!)
• Salt to taste
• 1 tbsp butter (about 14g)
• 1 garlic clove, thinly sliced

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients for a sec. A few little things can make a big difference!

• Quick Cooking Oats: These are key for the right texture. Rolled oats will work in a pinch (see FAQs!), but you’ll need to cook them longer.
• Butter vs. Oil: I highly recommend butter for that rich, nutty flavour. It really complements the garlic. But if you prefer, you can use oil – ghee works beautifully too!
• Seasoning Variations: This is where you can really get creative! I love a sprinkle of chaat masala for a tangy kick. Black salt (kala namak) adds a lovely sulphurous flavour that’s super traditional in Indian cooking. Garam masala, turmeric, or even just a pinch of red chilli powder are all fantastic options.
• Salt: Don’t skip the salt! It balances the flavours beautifully.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s super easy, I promise.

1. First, combine the oats and water in a saucepan. Turn the heat to medium and let it cook, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s thickened to your liking – usually about 5-7 minutes.
2. Now, add your seasoning of choice and a pinch of salt. Give it a good mix to make sure everything is evenly distributed.
3. While the oats are cooking, let’s make the star of the show: the burnt garlic butter! Heat the butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced garlic and sauté until it’s golden brown and beautifully crispy. Watch it carefully – burnt garlic is good, but completely blackened garlic is not!
4. Divide the cooked oats into two serving bowls.
5. Finally, drizzle that glorious burnt garlic butter evenly over the oats. Seriously, this is the best part.

Expert Tips

A few little things I’ve learned along the way:

• Don’t walk away from the garlic! It burns quickly, so keep a close eye on it.
• Adjust the amount of seasoning to your taste. Start with a little and add more as needed.
• For extra creamy oats, use a splash of milk (dairy or plant-based) towards the end of cooking.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few ideas:

• Vegan Adaptation: Simply swap the butter for your favourite plant-based butter. It works just as well! My friend, Priya, swears by using a vegan butter with a high fat content for the best flavour.
• Gluten-Free: 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: If you like things spicy, add a pinch of red chilli powder or a dash of your favourite hot sauce.
• Quick Weekday Breakfast Adaptation: I sometimes prep the seasoning mix the night before to save even more time in the morning!

Serving Suggestions

This is delicious all on its own, but here are a few ideas to make it a complete meal:

• Top with a boiled egg for extra protein.
• Serve alongside some sautéed vegetables.
• A dollop of yogurt adds a lovely coolness.

Storage Instructions

This is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours. You might need to add a splash of water when reheating, as the oats will absorb liquid.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

• Is this a healthy breakfast option? Absolutely! Oats are a great source of fibre and complex carbohydrates, keeping you full and energized.
• Can I use rolled oats instead of quick cooking oats? You can, but you’ll need to cook them for longer – about 20-25 minutes – and you might need to add more water.
• What seasonings work best with burnt garlic oats? Chaat masala, black salt, garam masala, turmeric, and red chilli powder are all fantastic options. Experiment and find your favourite!
• Can I prepare the burnt garlic butter ahead of time? Yes, you can! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just warm it up slightly before drizzling over the oats.
• How can I add protein to this dish? Add a boiled egg, some sautéed tofu, or a sprinkle of nuts and seeds.