Turmeric Masala Oats: A Flavorful and Nourishing Breakfast

If you’re looking to add a savory twist to your morning routine, Turmeric Masala Oats are a perfect option. This dish combines the wholesome goodness of oats with the vibrant flavors of Indian spices, creating a nourishing breakfast that’s both comforting and energizing. The earthy turmeric, aromatic cumin, and mustard seeds, along with the tangy tomato and fresh cilantro, offer a truly unique flavor profile. Whether you’re new to savory oats or a seasoned enthusiast, this recipe is sure to spice up your mornings.

For more inspiration on incorporating spices into your meals, check out How to Cook with Turmeric and Exploring Indian Breakfasts.

Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Turmeric Masala Oats is a savory, aromatic dish that combines the hearty texture of oats with a blend of spices and vegetables. Infused with the earthy flavor of turmeric, the warmth of cumin and mustard seeds, and the brightness of fresh cilantro, this dish is a unique and healthy twist on traditional oats. Topped with a soft-boiled egg and served with a side of lime and yogurt, this meal makes for a flavorful and satisfying breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

Turmeric Masala Oats

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• Author: Jennifer Mitchell
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Turmeric Masala Oats is a savory, aromatic dish that combines the hearty texture of oats with a blend of spices and vegetables. Infused with the earthy flavor of turmeric, the warmth of cumin and mustard seeds, and the brightness of fresh cilantro, this dish is a unique and healthy twist on traditional oats. Topped with a soft-boiled egg and served with a side of lime and yogurt, this meal makes for a flavorful and satisfying breakfast, lunch, or dinner.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

For the Oats:

• • 2 tablespoons (30ml) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds
  • 1/2 teaspoon mustard seeds
  • 1 medium clove garlic (5g), minced
  • 1 small yellow onion (4 ounces; 113g), finely chopped
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
  • 1 medium ripe plum tomato, finely chopped
  • 1/2 medium green bell pepper, stemmed, seeded, and cut into 1/2-inch cubes
  • 3/4 cup old-fashioned rolled oats (about 3 1/4 ounces; 90g)
  • 1 tablespoon Diamond Crystal kosher salt (for table salt, use half as much by volume)

To Serve:

• • Fresh cilantro leaves
  • Lime wedges
  • 2 soft-boiled eggs
  • Plain full-fat yogurt (optional)

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Oats:

   • Heat the extra-virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Sauté for 1-2 minutes, until they begin to crackle and release their aroma.

2. Cook the Aromatics:

   • Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent.

3. Add the Spices:

   • Stir in the ground coriander, red pepper flakes, and turmeric. Let the spices cook for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring they become fragrant and well incorporated with the onions and garlic.

4. Add the Vegetables:

   • Stir in the chopped tomato and green bell pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables soften slightly.

5. Cook the Oats:

   • Add the old-fashioned rolled oats to the skillet, and toast them for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, so they absorb the flavors from the spices and vegetables.

6. Add the Water and Simmer:

   • Pour in 1 1/2 cups (360ml) of water and stir to combine. Add the kosher salt and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover. Let the oats simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are cooked through and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency.

7. Serve:

   • Once the oats are cooked, spoon them into bowls. Top each serving with a soft-boiled egg, fresh cilantro leaves, a squeeze of lime juice, and a dollop of yogurt (if desired).

8. Enjoy:

   • Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting and flavorful Turmeric Masala Oats.

Notes

• You can adjust the consistency of the oats by adding more water if needed. For creamier oats, you can also stir in a little bit of milk or plant-based milk toward the end of cooking.
• If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced green chili to the mix.
• The soft-boiled egg adds richness to the dish, but you can omit it or replace it with a poached egg for a different texture.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Lunch, Savory Oats
• Method: Sautéing, Simmering
• Cuisine: Indian-Inspired, Fusion

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 330 kcal
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 570mg
• Fat: 14g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 10g
• Cholesterol: 185mg

Keywords: Turmeric Masala Oats

Instructions

1. Prepare the Base: In a medium pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them sizzle for about 30 seconds, until they begin to pop and release their fragrance.
2. Add Aromatics: Add the minced garlic and chopped onion to the pan, and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion softens and turns translucent.
3. Spices and Vegetables: Stir in the ground coriander, red pepper flakes, and turmeric. Cook the mixture for about 1 minute to allow the spices to bloom. Add the chopped tomato and bell pepper, and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables soften.
4. Cook the Oats: Add the rolled oats to the pan, stirring well to coat them in the spices. Pour in 1 1/2 cups of water (or vegetable broth for extra flavor), and bring it to a simmer. Lower the heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are soft and have absorbed most of the liquid.
5. Season and Serve: Add the kosher salt and adjust the seasoning to taste. Serve the turmeric masala oats hot, topped with fresh cilantro leaves, a squeeze of lime juice, and a soft-boiled egg on top for extra protein. Optionally, add a dollop of plain yogurt for added creaminess.

Advanced Techniques

1. Customizing the Spice Level

If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or omit them entirely. Alternatively, to enhance the heat, add a chopped green chili or a pinch of chili powder to the mix.

2. Incorporating Additional Vegetables

Feel free to add other vegetables such as spinach, peas, or carrots to the dish for extra flavor and nutrition. Just add them when you sauté the tomatoes and bell peppers.

3. Cooking with Broth for Depth

For a richer flavor, cook your oats in vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. This will give your turmeric masala oats an extra layer of savory depth.

4. Topping Variations

Besides soft-boiled eggs, you can top the oats with a poached egg, sautéed mushrooms, or even a spoonful of avocado for added creaminess. The possibilities are endless!

See more advanced recipes, at Mobolux.

Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

1. Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers, store the oats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra water or broth to loosen the oats.

2. Freezing

While oats can be frozen, it’s best to avoid freezing the soft-boiled eggs and yogurt as they may change texture upon thawing. If freezing, store the oats in individual portions and reheat thoroughly before serving.

3. Reheating

Reheat the oats gently over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to return them to their original creamy texture. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.

Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

1. Vegan Version

To make this recipe vegan, simply omit the soft-boiled egg and substitute the yogurt with a plant-based alternative such as coconut or almond yogurt. This will still provide the same creamy texture without the dairy.

2. Gluten-Free

This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses old-fashioned rolled oats. Ensure that your oats are certified gluten-free if you have a sensitivity to gluten.

3. Dairy-Free

For a dairy-free version, simply skip the yogurt or use a non-dairy yogurt substitute like almond or coconut yogurt.

4. High-Protein Option

To increase the protein content, add more soft-boiled eggs or a scoop of protein powder. Alternatively, you can stir in some cooked chickpeas or lentils for a plant-based protein boost.

FAQs About The Recipe

1. Can I use steel-cut oats instead of rolled oats?

Yes, you can use steel-cut oats, but they will require a longer cooking time. You’ll need to simmer them for about 20-30 minutes instead of 5-7 minutes. Be sure to add extra water as steel-cut oats absorb more liquid.

2. Can I prepare Turmeric Masala Oats in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the oats a day ahead, store them in the refrigerator, and reheat them when you’re ready to eat. Just be sure to add a little water when reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

3. Can I add more protein to this recipe?

Absolutely! You can add more soft-boiled eggs, chickpeas, or even paneer (Indian cottage cheese) for additional protein. Tofu or tempeh also makes a great addition for a plant-based option.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

To increase the heat, you can add fresh green chilies, extra red pepper flakes, or even a dash of cayenne pepper. Experiment to find the level of spice that suits your taste!

Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Turmeric Masala Oats is a savory, spiced variation of your traditional oats that is both filling and nutritious. With the perfect balance of turmeric, cumin, mustard seeds, and other flavorful spices, this dish provides a warm, hearty breakfast that’s packed with flavor and a touch of comfort. Whether you enjoy it with a soft-boiled egg, some yogurt, or simply on its own, it’s an excellent way to start your day on a healthy note.

Try this recipe and enjoy a breakfast that is as vibrant as it is satisfying!