Date and Nut Oatmeal Recipe – Easy Indian Breakfast Idea

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Date and Nut Oatmeal Recipe – Easy Indian Breakfast Idea

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, mornings can be… hectic. But a nourishing breakfast is so important to start the day right. I’m sharing one of my absolute go-to’s – a creamy, comforting Date and Nut Oatmeal. It’s inspired by traditional Indian flavors and is surprisingly easy to whip up, even on the busiest of days. Trust me, this isn’t your average oatmeal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Date and Nut Oatmeal is more than just a quick breakfast. It’s a hug in a bowl! It’s naturally sweet, packed with goodness from dates and nuts, and has a lovely, warming texture. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some healthy ingredients, especially if you have little ones who are a bit picky. It’s a taste of home, even when you’re short on time.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious oatmeal:

• 200 grams dates (seeds removed and roughly chopped) – about 1 cup
• 1 cup mixed nuts (coarsely ground)
• 3 tablespoons rolled oats
• 1 cup fresh cream
• 1 cup milk
• 3 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon raisins

Ingredient Notes

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

Dates: Variety & Sweetness

I prefer using Medjool dates for this recipe because they’re wonderfully soft and caramel-like. But any soft, plump date will work beautifully. If your dates are a little dry, soak them in warm water for 10 minutes before using. This will help them blend into a smoother paste.

Mixed Nuts: Regional Blends & Roasting

Traditionally, in my family, we use a mix of almonds, cashews, and walnuts. Feel free to experiment! Pistachios or pecans would also be lovely. Lightly roasting the nuts before grinding them really enhances their flavor. Just a few minutes in a dry pan is all it takes.

Rolled Oats: Quick vs. Old-Fashioned

I recommend using rolled oats (also called old-fashioned oats) for the best texture. Quick-cooking oats will work in a pinch, but the oatmeal won’t be as creamy.

Cream & Milk: Full-Fat vs. Low-Fat Options

Full-fat cream and milk create a richer, more decadent oatmeal. But you can absolutely use low-fat or even plant-based alternatives if you prefer. Coconut milk is amazing in this recipe!

Honey: Sourcing & Alternatives

I love using local, raw honey whenever possible. It adds a beautiful floral note. If you don’t have honey, maple syrup or even a little brown sugar will work just fine.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, let’s make the date paste. In a pan, add the chopped dates and 1 cup of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes, until the dates are nice and softened.
2. Now, carefully transfer the dates and water to a blender and blend until you have a smooth, luscious paste. Set this aside.
3. In a saucepan, combine the cream, milk, and honey. Bring it to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the date paste and half of the ground nuts. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring now and then to prevent sticking. The mixture should start to thicken slightly.
5. Add the rolled oats and mix well. Continue to cook for about 5 more minutes, stirring frequently, until the oatmeal reaches your desired consistency.
6. Finally, stir in the raisins.
7. Serve warm, garnished with the remaining nuts and a sprinkle of raisins. Enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the simmering step for the dates! It’s key to getting a smooth paste.
• If the oatmeal gets too thick, add a splash more milk.
• For a more intense nutty flavor, add a teaspoon of nut butter along with the ground nuts.

Variations

This recipe is super versatile! Here are a few ideas to spice things up:

Vegan Date and Nut Oatmeal

Simply swap the cream and milk for plant-based alternatives like almond milk and coconut cream. Use maple syrup instead of honey.

Gluten-Free Date and Nut Oatmeal

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as your rolled oats are certified gluten-free.

Spice Level Adjustments (Cardamom, Cinnamon)

A pinch of cardamom or cinnamon adds a lovely warmth. My grandmother always added a tiny bit of nutmeg too!

Festival Adaptations (Lohri, Makar Sankranti)

During Lohri and Makar Sankranti, we often add a sprinkle of sesame seeds and jaggery for extra warmth and sweetness. It’s a lovely way to celebrate the harvest season.

Serving Suggestions

This oatmeal is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with:

• A dollop of yogurt
• Fresh fruit like sliced bananas or berries
• A drizzle of honey or maple syrup

Storage Instructions

Leftover oatmeal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

What type of dates work best in this recipe?

Medjool dates are my favorite because of their soft texture and caramel flavor, but any soft, plump date will work.

Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time?

You can definitely make the date paste ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Then, just assemble the oatmeal when you’re ready to eat.

Is it possible to use a different type of nut?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with your favorite nuts. Almonds, cashews, walnuts, pistachios, and pecans all work well.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

Adjust the amount of honey to your liking. You can also add a little bit of jaggery or maple syrup.

What are the health benefits of dates and nuts in oatmeal?

Dates are a great source of fiber and antioxidants, while nuts provide healthy fats, protein, and vitamins. It’s a super nutritious way to start your day!

Can I use jaggery instead of honey?

Yes, you can! Jaggery adds a lovely, earthy sweetness. Use about the same amount as honey.