I like oatmeal and I think I always have but I actually crave this recipe for soaked oatmeal. Soaking is one of the topics I have read a lot on through the blogs I follow related to whole foods and getting the most out of our food.
I am not going to get into all the details about soaking but from what I have read the reason to soak is to break down the phytates and make it easier to digest so that your body gets all the nutrients in the oatmeal (or any grain you are using). Here are some of the links about soaking if you would like to read more.
http://www.keeperofthehome.org/2008/12/qa-confusion-with-soaking-grains.html
http://www.passionatehomemaking.com/2008/10/more-q-a-on-soaking.html
So how do you “soak” oatmeal? Basically you add water and some acid medium (kefir, whey, vinegar or yogurt) and let it sit overnight for it to do its work. Here is the recipe I have been using:
Soaked Oatmeal for 4
from Passionate Homemaking
1 1/2 cups uncooked rolled oats
1 1/2 cups water (to just cover the oats)
1 T acid medium (kefir, whey, vinegar, yogurt – I used dairy free coconut milk yogurt)
1/8 cup ground whole wheat flour (this helps break down the phytates more quickly)
1-2 T ground almonds or other nuts, optional (I add my nuts at the end.)
Other toppings: ground flax seed, pumpkin seeds, chopped apples, raisins, shredded coconut flakes
1. Place the oats, water, flour and acid medium in a container. (You can add your nuts as well because soaking helps them break down too.) I use a mason jar. Cover with lid, mix it up and let it sit on the counter overnight. Lindsay at Passionate Homemaking feels the ideal soaking time is 24 hours. I usually only do 8-12 hours.
2. In the morning, heat up an additional 1 1/4 cup water. After it boils, add the soaked oats, and any additional toppings you desire. We love chopped apples, raisins and shredded coconut. Turn down temperature to a simmer, and allow to cook for 5 minutes or so. Remove from heat and top with ground flax seeds, if desired. I usually add coconut oil, honey to sweeten, nuts (I am starting to soak them as well.), banana or dried fruit, cinnamon and some coconut milk. Delicious!
Here is a link to Keeper of the Home and some other suggestions for toppings:
Let me know if you try it and what you think!
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