Quick Oats Vegetable Porridge Recipe – Indian Breakfast Idea

Last Updated on 2 months by Neha Deshmukh

Quick Oats Vegetable Porridge Recipe – Indian Breakfast Idea

Hey everyone! If you’re anything like me, mornings can be… hectic. Between getting ready and juggling a million things, a quick, healthy breakfast often falls by the wayside. But I’ve found the perfect solution – this incredibly easy and nourishing Vegetable Oats Porridge! It’s a comforting bowl of goodness that comes together in under 20 minutes, and honestly, it’s become a staple in my kitchen. I first made this when I was trying to sneak more veggies into my kids’ diets, and it was a surprising hit!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This isn’t your average porridge. It’s a delightful blend of wholesome rolled oats and colorful vegetables, seasoned just right. It’s warm, comforting, and packed with nutrients to kickstart your day. Plus, it’s super versatile – you can easily adapt it to your taste and whatever veggies you have on hand. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy a hearty, healthy Indian-inspired breakfast, even on the busiest mornings.

Ingredients

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

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup cubed carrots
• 1 cup cubed potatoes
• 1 cup green peas
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 cups water
• 1 teaspoon butter, ghee, or oil

Ingredient Notes

Let’s talk ingredients! A few little tips from my kitchen to yours:

Rolled Oats: Types & Benefits

I prefer using rolled oats (also called old-fashioned oats) for this recipe. They have a lovely texture and cook up nicely. Quick-cooking oats will work in a pinch, but the porridge will be softer. Steel-cut oats aren’t ideal as they take much longer to cook. Oats are a fantastic source of fiber, keeping you feeling full and energized.

Vegetable Variations: Regional Indian Options

Feel free to get creative with your veggies! This recipe is a great way to use up whatever’s in your fridge. Some Indian-inspired options I love include:

• Cauliflower florets
• Spinach (add towards the end of cooking)
• Beans (French beans or green beans work well)
• Small pieces of pumpkin or butternut squash

Butter, Ghee, or Oil: Flavor Profiles

I usually use ghee for a lovely, traditional Indian flavor. Butter works beautifully too, adding a richness. If you prefer, a neutral oil like sunflower or vegetable oil is perfectly fine. Each will give a slightly different taste, so experiment and see what you like best!

Step-By-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s get cooking!

1. First, heat the butter, ghee, or oil in a pan over medium heat.
2. Add the rolled oats and dry roast them for about 2 minutes. This step is key – it reduces stickiness and brings out a lovely nutty aroma. Keep stirring so they don’t burn!
3. Now, toss in the chopped carrots, potatoes, and green peas. Give everything a good stir to coat the veggies in the ghee/butter/oil.
4. Pour in the water, add the salt and black pepper, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. If the porridge gets too thick, simply add a little hot water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Give it a final stir, and if you like a little heat, add a pinch of chili flakes or some extra pepper.
8. Let it cool slightly, then serve with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. The lemon brightens up all the flavors beautifully!

Expert Tips

• Don’t skip the dry roasting step! It really makes a difference in the texture.
• Keep stirring! This prevents the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
• Taste as you go. Adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Variations

• Vegan Adaptation: Simply use oil instead of butter or ghee.
• Gluten-Free Considerations: Ensure your rolled oats are certified gluten-free if you have a gluten intolerance.
• Spice Level Adjustments: My family loves a little kick, so I often add a pinch of red chili powder or a finely chopped green chili.
• Quick Weekday Breakfast Adaptation: Chop the vegetables the night before to save time in the morning.

Serving Suggestions

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

• A dollop of yogurt (plain or flavored)
• A sprinkle of chopped cilantro
• A side of fruit

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 water if needed.

FAQs

Let’s answer some common questions!

Is this porridge suitable for babies?

Yes, it can be! Just make sure the vegetables are very soft and mashed or finely chopped. You might also want to reduce the amount of salt and pepper.

Can I use different vegetables in this recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with whatever vegetables you have on hand.

What is the best way to adjust the consistency of the porridge?

Add hot water, a little at a time, until you reach your desired consistency.

Can I make this porridge ahead of time?

You can, but the oats will absorb more liquid as it sits. You’ll likely need to add more water when reheating.

What are the health benefits of starting the day with oats and vegetables?

Oats are a great source of fiber, which helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full. Vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals. It’s a fantastic way to nourish your body and start your day off right!