Quick Oats Porridge Recipe – Easy Indian Breakfast with Milk & Sugar

Neha DeshmukhRecipe Author
Ingredients
2
Person(s)
  • 1 cup
    quick cooking oats
  • 1 cup
    water
  • 1 cup
    milk
  • 2 tablespoons
    raw sugar
Directions
  • Combine oats, water, and milk in a saucepan.
  • Add sugar (optional) and stir well. If using honey, wait until the porridge cools slightly to preserve its nutrients.
  • Bring to a simmer over low-medium heat, stirring frequently, for 5-6 minutes (quick oats) or 10-12 minutes (rolled oats).
  • If the porridge becomes too thick, add more liquid. Continue to cook until the oats are softened and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency.
  • Serve hot, warm, or at room temperature. Top with fruits, nuts, or dried fruits after cooling slightly.
Nutritions
  • Calories:
    159 kcal
    25%
  • Energy:
    665 kJ
    22%
  • Protein:
    8 g
    28%
  • Carbohydrates:
    45 mg
    40%
  • Sugar:
    5 mg
    8%
  • Salt:
    50 g
    25%
  • Fat:
    5 g
    20%

Last Updated on 4 months by Neha Deshmukh

Quick Oats Porridge Recipe – Easy Indian Breakfast With Milk & Sugar

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, mornings can be… hectic. Between getting ready and juggling a million things, a quick, comforting breakfast is a must. This quick oats porridge recipe is my go-to – it’s ready in under 10 minutes, super customizable, and feels like a warm hug in a bowl. I first made this when I was a student and needed something fast and filling before classes, and it’s been a staple ever since!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t just any oats porridge. It’s a simple, wholesome Indian-inspired breakfast that’s perfect for busy weekdays or a cozy weekend morning. It’s incredibly versatile – you can tweak the sweetness, add your favorite toppings, and even adjust the milk to suit your preferences. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to start your day with a healthy dose of fiber!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up a bowl of goodness:

  • ?? cup quick cooking oats (about 40-50g)
  • 1 cup water (240ml)
  • ?? cup milk (about 120ml – adjust to preference)
  • 2 tablespoons raw sugar (about 20g)

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little things can make a big difference:

  • Oat Types: I love using quick-cooking oats for this recipe because they’re, well, quick! Rolled oats work too, but you’ll need to simmer them for a bit longer (around 10-12 minutes). Steel-cut oats aren’t ideal for a speedy breakfast like this.
  • Milk Variations: Feel free to use any milk you like! Dairy milk (cow, buffalo) gives a lovely creamy texture. Plant-based milks like almond, soy, or oat milk work beautifully too. I often use oat milk for an extra boost of creaminess.
  • Sugar Substitutes: Don’t want to use refined sugar? No problem! You can substitute with honey (add after the porridge has cooled slightly to preserve its nutrients), maple syrup, or even a natural sweetener like stevia. Jaggery is a fantastic traditional Indian option too – it adds a lovely caramel-like flavour.

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking! It’s seriously easy.

  1. First, grab a pan and pour in the water and milk.
  2. Next, add the quick oats and sugar (if using). Give it a good stir to combine everything.
  3. Now, place the pan over low-medium heat. This is key – we want a gentle simmer, not a boil!
  4. Stir frequently for about 5-6 minutes. The oats will start to soften and the mixture will thicken. Keep stirring to prevent sticking!
  5. If the porridge gets too thick, simply add a splash more milk or water. If it’s too thin, continue simmering for a minute or two longer.
  6. Once the oats are soft and the porridge has reached your desired consistency, it’s ready!

Expert Tips

Here are a few things I’ve learned over the years:

  • Stir, Stir, Stir: Seriously, don’t skip the stirring! It prevents the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures a creamy texture.
  • Low and Slow: Simmering on low-medium heat is the way to go. It allows the oats to cook evenly and prevents them from burning.
  • Adjust to Your Liking: Don’t be afraid to experiment with the amount of liquid to get the perfect consistency. Some people like it thick and creamy, others prefer it a bit runnier.

Variations

This recipe is a blank canvas for your creativity! Here are a few ideas:

  • Vegan Adaptation: Simply use your favorite plant-based milk and swap the sugar for maple syrup or agave.
  • Gluten-Free Confirmation: Oats are naturally gluten-free, but always check the packaging to ensure they haven’t been processed in a facility that also handles gluten.
  • Spice Level: A pinch of cardamom or cinnamon adds a lovely warming flavour. My grandmother always added a tiny bit of cardamom – it’s divine!
  • Adjusting Sweetness: Start with less sugar than you think you need, and add more to taste. Remember, you can always add, but you can’t take away!

Serving Suggestions

Now for the fun part – toppings! Here are some of my favorites:

  • Fresh fruits like berries, bananas, or mangoes
  • A sprinkle of chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
  • A handful of dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, dates)
  • A drizzle of honey or maple syrup
  • A dollop of yogurt

Storage Instructions

If you happen to have leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them 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 or water to loosen it up.

FAQs

Got questions? I’ve got answers!

  • How long does oats porridge stay fresh? Best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers will keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.
  • Can I make oats porridge ahead of time? You can, but the texture will change slightly. It tends to get thicker as it sits.
  • What is the best type of milk to use for oats porridge? It’s all about personal preference! Dairy milk is classic, but plant-based milks work wonderfully too.
  • Can I use jaggery instead of sugar? Absolutely! Jaggery adds a lovely caramel flavour.
  • How do I prevent oats porridge from sticking to the pan? Stir frequently, especially during the first few minutes of cooking. Using a non-stick pan also helps!

Enjoy your delicious and easy oats porridge! Let me know in the comments what toppings you love to add. Happy cooking!

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