Oats Kanji Recipe – Cardamom & Cashew Indian Oatmeal Drink

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Oats Kanji Recipe – Cardamom & Cashew Indian Oatmeal Drink

Introduction

There’s just something so incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Kanji, isn’t there? It’s the kind of dish my nani (grandmother) would make when I was feeling under the weather, or on a chilly winter morning. This Oats Kanji recipe is my take on that traditional comfort, swapping rice for oats for a slightly healthier, quicker version. It’s subtly sweet, warmly spiced, and unbelievably soothing. Perfect for a cozy breakfast, a light supper, or whenever you need a little hug in a bowl!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Oats Kanji isn’t just delicious; it’s also incredibly easy to make! It comes together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s packed with goodness – oats are a fantastic source of fiber, and the cardamom adds a lovely aromatic touch. It’s a simple, nourishing drink that feels like a warm embrace from the inside out.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this comforting Oats Kanji:

• 2 cups water (approximately 480ml)
• 2 tbsp oats (about 30g) – rolled oats work best!
• A pinch of cardamom powder
• A pinch of salt
• 2 tbsp sugar (approximately 20g) – adjust to your liking
• ½ cup milk (approximately 120ml) – I prefer whole milk for richness, but any kind works
• 1 tsp ghee (approximately 5ml)
• 5-6 cashews
• 5-6 raisins

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! Ghee is key here. It adds a beautiful nutty flavor that really elevates the Kanji. Don’t skip it if you can help it! If you absolutely must, you can substitute with butter, but ghee truly makes a difference.

Cardamom is another star. It brings that classic Indian warmth and aroma. Use freshly ground cardamom if possible – the flavor is so much brighter.

And finally, Kanji itself is a bit of a regional comfort food. It’s traditionally made with rice, and variations exist all over India. This oat version is a quicker, modern twist on a beloved classic.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. In a saucepan, combine the oats and water. Bring it to a boil, stirring frequently. This prevents the oats from sticking and ensures they cook evenly. Keep stirring until the oats are fully cooked and the mixture has thickened slightly – about 5-7 minutes.
2. Now, add the cardamom, salt, sugar, and milk. Give it a good mix and bring the mixture back to a gentle boil. Once it boils, turn off the heat. We don’t want it to overflow!
3. While the oats are cooking, heat the ghee in a small pan. Add the cashews and raisins and fry them until they turn golden brown and beautifully fragrant. Be careful not to burn them!
4. Pour the fried cashews and raisins into the oats kanji. Give it one final stir.
5. Serve the kanji warm. It’s best enjoyed immediately!

Expert Tips

• Don’t walk away while the oats are boiling! They can stick to the bottom of the pan quickly.
• Adjust the amount of water to achieve your desired consistency. For a thinner Kanji, add more water.
• If you like a creamier Kanji, use a little more milk.

Variations

• Spice Level – Mild: If you’re sensitive to spice, you can reduce the amount of cardamom or even omit it altogether. A tiny pinch of nutmeg can be a lovely substitute.
• Festival Adaptations – Lohri/Makar Sankranti: During Lohri and Makar Sankranti, many families add a bit of jaggery instead of sugar for a more traditional flavor.
• Health Adaptations – Sugar-Free: For a sugar-free version, use a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. You can also try a date paste for a caramel-like sweetness. My friend, Priya, swears by using a little bit of apple sauce!

Serving Suggestions

Oats Kanji is wonderful on its own, but you can also enjoy it with a side of fruit. A sliced banana or a few berries would be lovely. It’s also delicious with a sprinkle of chopped nuts on top.

Storage Instructions

Oats Kanji is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. It will thicken as it cools, so you may need to add a splash of milk or water when reheating.

FAQs

• Is Oats Kanji good for digestion? Absolutely! Oats are a great source of fiber, which aids digestion. The warm liquid is also soothing for the stomach.
• Can I make Oats Kanji with different types of milk? Yes, you can! Almond milk, soy milk, or coconut milk all work well. Keep in mind that they will each impart a slightly different flavor.
• How can I adjust the sweetness level in Oats Kanji? Feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. Start with less and add more as needed.
• What is the best type of oats to use for Kanji? Rolled oats are ideal. Quick-cooking oats will work in a pinch, but they may result in a slightly thinner Kanji. Avoid steel-cut oats, as they take much longer to cook.
• Can I add other nuts and seeds to Oats Kanji? Definitely! Almonds, pistachios, chia seeds, or flax seeds would all be delicious additions.