Steel Cut Oats - Groats

If you like creamy oatmeal, cream of wheat, or good ol' corn grits give this recipe for Groats a try.  

One of my favorite articles I've run into identifies Super Foods for Women.  Always looking to align my diet to be full of power and positive impact, I'm up to try a lot of new things.  A new favorite is Steel Cut Oats.

Steel cuts are the earthier cousin of traditional rolled or quick rolled oats.  The grain is cut two or three times.  Also known as Scotch oats, steel cut oats have a porridge like consistency.  They pack a wallop of fiber and cholesterol lowering properties and are a wonderful change from the traditional oatmeal or pre-measured sweetened instant packets.

Finding steel cut oats isn't hard.  Check your cereal aisle as they're often sold in canisters.  Trader Joe's sells a frozen version that is portioned out for heat-n-serve convenience.  In organic food aisles, Bob's Red Mill offers a bag for $3 - $4 dollars.  I personally prefer the bulk food section at my local grocery store where I pay $0.99 a pound for the organic oats.  I consume about a pound a month.

Preparing the oats does take more time so this isn't an instant breakfast.  Instead, I prepare enough for the week on Sunday evening.  For every 1 cup oats, use 4 parts water.

1 cup Steel Cut Oats
Pat of butter
3 1/2 cups Water
1/2 cup Low-Fat/Fat-Free Milk
Pinch of salt
Light brown sugar, wheat germ, flax seed, dried cranberries to serve

Melt the pat of butter (optional) in a small pot on medium - high.  Add the dry oats, tossing to coat in the butter and roasting lightly until they give off a nutty aroma (roughly 5 minutes). 

Increase the stove heat to high.  Add the water and salt and bring to a boil stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. 

Reduce heat to medium and continue simmering uncovered for 25 - 30 minutes. 

Add milk and stir into the groats, cooking for another 5 minutes.

Serve 1/2 cup of groats with a sprinkle of light brown sugar (1 tsp) and wheat germ.  If you like flax or cranberries that is also a good addition. 

Store groats in a sealed container and refrigerate.  I keep mine in the break room fridge for up to 4 days, portioning out and warming it in the microwave every morning.