Oats & Garlic Porridge Recipe – Indian Breakfast & Healthy Oats Recipe

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Oats & Garlic Porridge Recipe – Indian Breakfast & Healthy Oats Recipe

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 stumbled upon this Oats & Garlic Porridge a few years ago, looking for something quick, healthy, and a little different. It’s become a regular in my kitchen, and I’m so excited to share it with you! It’s a comforting, flavorful bowl of goodness that’s surprisingly easy to make.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average oatmeal. The combination of oats, garlic, and subtle spices creates a really unique and satisfying flavor. It’s incredibly healthy, packed with fiber, and perfect for a chilly morning. Plus, it’s ready in under 30 minutes – a total lifesaver on busy weekdays! It’s a fantastic way to introduce a little Ayurvedic wisdom into your breakfast routine too.

Ingredients

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

• 1 cup Instant Oats (about 100g)
• 6 Garlic Flakes (or 2-3 cloves garlic, minced)
• 3 tablespoons chopped Carrot (about 30g)
• ½ cup chopped Tomato (about 75g)
• 1 Green Chili, chopped (adjust to your spice preference)
• ½ teaspoon Fennel Seeds (about 2.5g)
• 2 tablespoons chopped Coriander Leaves (about 10g)
• Salt to taste
• 1 cup Grated Coconut or Low-Fat Milk (about 240ml)

Ingredient Notes

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

Oats: Types & Benefits
I use instant oats for speed, but rolled oats work too – you’ll just need to cook them a bit longer. Oats are a fantastic source of fiber, which keeps you feeling full and supports healthy digestion. They’re also great for lowering cholesterol!

Garlic Flakes: Regional Variations & Uses
Garlic is a staple in Indian cooking, and for good reason! It’s believed to have amazing medicinal properties. I love using garlic flakes for convenience, but fresh garlic is wonderful too. In some regions, people even add a tiny pinch of hing (asafoetida) along with the garlic for extra flavor and digestive benefits.

Fennel Seeds: Flavor Profile & Digestive Benefits
Don’t skip the fennel seeds! They add a lovely subtle sweetness and a beautiful aroma. Fennel is also known to aid digestion – perfect for a comforting breakfast. Lightly toasting them before adding them to the cooker enhances their flavor even more.

Coconut Milk/Milk: Traditional vs. Modern Options
Traditionally, this porridge is made with freshly grated coconut milk. It adds a wonderful richness and flavor. But low-fat milk is a perfectly good substitute if you’re watching your calorie intake or just want something quicker.

Green Chili: Spice Level & Alternatives
I like a little kick in my breakfast, but feel free to adjust the amount of green chili to your liking. You can also use a pinch of red chili powder if you prefer. If you’re not a fan of spice, you can leave it out altogether!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, grab your pressure cooker. Add the oats, garlic flakes, chopped carrot, tomato, green chili, fennel seeds, coriander leaves, and salt.
2. Now, pour in enough water to just cover all the ingredients. Usually, about 2-3 cups will do.
3. Close the pressure cooker lid and cook for 2 whistles on medium heat.
4. Once cooked, let the pressure release naturally. Then, carefully open the lid and give everything a good mash with a spoon or potato masher. This helps blend the garlic flavor beautifully.
5. While the porridge is cooling slightly, let’s prepare the coconut milk. If you’re using grated coconut, grind it with a little lukewarm water and strain to extract the milk.
6. Pour the coconut milk (or low-fat milk) into the mashed porridge.
7. Gently reheat everything over low heat, stirring constantly, until it’s warmed through. Don’t let it boil!
8. Serve hot and enjoy!

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the oats! You want a slightly creamy texture, not a mushy one.
• Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired consistency.
• A pinch of turmeric powder adds a lovely color and extra health benefits.

Variations

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

Vegan Adaptation
Simply use your favorite plant-based milk (almond, soy, or oat milk work great!) instead of dairy milk.

Gluten-Free Confirmation
This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use certified gluten-free oats.

Spice Level Adjustment
Add a pinch of red chili powder or a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.

Quick Oats Variation
If you’re really short on time, you can cook this in a pot on the stovetop instead of a pressure cooker. Just simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently.

Festival Adaptation (Navratri/Fasting Friendly)
During Navratri or other fasting periods, you can skip the onion and garlic and use sabudana (sago) instead of oats for a completely vrat-compliant version.

Serving Suggestions

I love to garnish this porridge with a sprinkle of extra coriander leaves and a dollop of yogurt (if not fasting!). It’s delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side of fruit or a small bowl of raita.

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, adding a splash of milk if needed to restore the creamy consistency.

FAQs

Can I use steel-cut oats instead of instant oats?
You can, but they’ll take much longer to cook – about 20-25 minutes in a pressure cooker.

How can I adjust the consistency of the porridge?
Add more water for a thinner consistency, or less water for a thicker one.

Is this porridge suitable for babies and young children?
Yes, but make sure to omit the green chili and use a very small amount of salt. You can also blend it to a smoother consistency for younger babies.

Can I make this porridge ahead of time?
You can cook the oats and garlic mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Then, just add the milk and reheat when you’re ready to eat.

What are the health benefits of garlic in this recipe?
Garlic is packed with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties. It’s also believed to boost immunity and improve heart health.

Can I use coconut cream instead of coconut milk?
You can, but it will make the porridge much richer and thicker. Use it sparingly!