Slow Cooker Oats Recipe

Steel-cut oats: These are whole oat groats that have been chopped into pieces, offering a chewy texture and nutty flavor.

Water: Essential for cooking the oats and achieving the desired consistency.

Non-dairy milk: Adds creaminess to the oats; you can use almond, soy, coconut, or any other plant-based milk.

Cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy flavor that complements the oats perfectly.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic note to the dish.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of all the ingredients.

To enhance the flavor of your steel-cut oats, consider toasting them in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few minutes before adding them to the slow cooker. This will bring out a nutty aroma and add depth to your oatmeal.

• steel-cut oats - Substitute with rolled oats: Rolled oats cook faster and have a softer texture, but they can still be used in a slow cooker with slightly adjusted cooking times.

• water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth adds a savory depth of flavor, making the oats more robust and hearty.

• non-dairy milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a creamy texture and a hint of tropical flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the oats.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, slightly sweet, and nutty flavor that complements the oats well.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a distinct, sweet, and nutty flavor that pairs nicely with the oats.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor profile and can enhance the overall taste of the dish better than regular table salt.

• Allow the slow cooker oats to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation and keeps the oats from becoming too watery.

• Transfer the cooled oats into airtight containers. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids or BPA-free plastic containers work best.

• For individual servings, use small containers or mason jars. This makes it easy to grab and go for a quick breakfast.

• Store the containers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. This ensures the oats stay fresh and ready to eat.

• To freeze, portion the oats into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Flatten the bags to save space and make stacking easier.

• Label each container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the oats have been stored.

• Freeze the oats for up to 3 months. This allows you to enjoy a hearty breakfast even on the busiest mornings.

• When ready to eat, thaw the oats in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture and flavor.

• Reheat the oats in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a splash of non-dairy milk or water to loosen the consistency if needed.

• Stir well and add your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruits, nuts, or a drizzle of maple syrup. This adds a burst of flavor and makes each serving unique.

• Stovetop Method: Place the leftover oats in a saucepan. Add a splash of non-dairy milk or water to loosen them up. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally until warmed through. This method helps maintain the creamy texture.

• Microwave Method: Transfer the oats to a microwave-safe bowl. Add a bit of non-dairy milk or water to prevent drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Adjust the time based on your microwave's power.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the oats in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and add a splash of non-dairy milk or water. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method is great if you're reheating a large batch.

• Slow Cooker Method: If you have time, you can reheat the oats in the slow cooker. Add a bit of non-dairy milk or water to the oats and set the slow cooker to low for about an hour. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.

• Double Boiler Method: Place the oats in a heatproof bowl over a pot of simmering water. Stir occasionally until the oats are heated through. This gentle method prevents scorching and maintains the creamy consistency.

• Instant Pot Method: Use the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add the oats and a splash of non-dairy milk or water. Stir frequently until the oats are warmed through. This method is quick and efficient.

• Slow cooker: This is the main appliance used to cook the oats slowly over several hours, ensuring they become tender and flavorful.

• Measuring cups: These are essential for accurately measuring the oats, water, and non-dairy milk to ensure the correct proportions.

• Measuring spoons: These are used to measure out the cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt precisely.

• Mixing spoon: This is used to stir all the ingredients together in the slow cooker before cooking begins.

• Serving spoon: This is used to stir the oats before serving and to dish out portions into bowls.

• Bowls: These are used to serve the cooked oats, allowing for the addition of any desired toppings.

• Lid: This is used to cover the slow cooker, trapping heat and moisture to cook the oats evenly.

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and prep all ingredients the night before to save time in the morning.

Use a slow cooker liner: This makes cleanup a breeze, allowing you to spend less time scrubbing and more time enjoying your meal.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch and store portions in the fridge or freezer for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Quick toppings: Have toppings like fruits, nuts, and seeds prepped and ready to go for easy customization.