With the end of fresh summer fruits, I’ve been wondering what to put on top of my oatmeal. I can’t eat it plain. I had heard about savory oatmeal being similar to jook (also known as congee or rice porridge), and with cooler weather finally setting in, it’s time to give it a whirl.
But it’s going to have to be something very simple, super quick, and easy enough make half-awake. I’m thinking leftovers.
I had extra roasted trumpet mushrooms and carrots. There was red potatoes too but I ate them while waiting for the oatmeal to cook. It wasn’t even a long wait – 8 minutes, using Trader Joe’s Quick Cook Steel Cut Oats.
Warm and tasty for wintery mornings, savory oatmeal beats out the sweet version, at least until summer rolls around again. I’m already thinking ahead to other toppings like leftover Chinese take-out, especially those dishes with a lot of sauce. Savory oatmeal with Kung Pao Tofu, anyone?
FoodFeud says
I love my oatmeal so I’m surprised I’ve never tried savory oats. Creature of habit, I guess. That being said, roasted carrots and mushrooms sound perfect on top of creamy, nutty oats!
Andrea says
Although I sometimes have savory foods for breakfast (like polenta with olives and tomatoes), I don’t think I’ve ever has a savory oatmeal. I think using steel cut oats for this dish was a good idea because it seems a little heartier than rolled oats.
Will Parkinson says
Paul and I just bought some ‘frozen oatmeal’ as neither of us have really ever tried oatmeal before (as a breakfast cereal). And now it sits in the freezer.
India-leigh @ aveganobsession.blogspot.com says
splendid idea! Umm, just sweet chili sauce on it would be good…
In Singapore it is the norm, they think us weird for having sweet porridge.
Hannah says
I adore the idea of savory oatmeal, and have been meaning to try it out for years now- Literally! Topping it with mushrooms has just about pushed me over the edge, because that sounds incredible. I’m gonna do this time, soon!
chow says
FoodFeud – I know, it took me awhile to give savory oatmeal a try. The end of summer pushed me over the edge. :-)
Andrea – Steel cut oats do seem heartier, plus I like the taste better.
Will Parkinson – I haven’t tried frozen oatmeal before only because the Trader Joe’s quick cook ones are so easy.
India-leigh – Spicy chili sauce would be good too.
Hannah – It took me awhile but I’m glad I tried it. It’s yummy!
jodye says
Oh, savory oats are just wonderful. I love the idea of roasted vegetables on top, they are one thing I can never resist. I do a very nice version of savory oats with curry powder and caramelized onions that always hits the spot
Jes says
All these savory oatmeal posts lately–I’ve got to try it out soon! Your trumpet mushrooms on top look divine.
Kathy says
Savory oatmeal sounds like a great idea. I love oatmeal, but I do get tired of always having sweet oatmeal. I think oatmeal would be tasty with leftovers that have a lot of sauce. I will definitely try this.
Erin says
I think oatmeal is a great base for almost anything! I like savory oat bran or grits too.
Mandee says
Ooh, I really like this idea! I never make oatmeal but I did buy some steel cut oats recently and I had no idea what to do with them until I read this post – thanks!
trina says
Your mushrooms are beautiful, and thank you for opening my world to the possibilities of savory oatmeal!
Setya Eko says
waw looks delicious oatmeal. I will try with a mixture of local carrot and mushrooms from Indonesia. good writing.
Grainy says
Savoury oats is one of my mainstays during the colder months.
I first came across it when I wanted Jook but couldn’t be bothered with the waiting so just dumped some soy sauce on some plain oats cooked with just a little bit of salt and water. It was delicious!! :D
I also regularly sub soy sauce for Kimchi or, if there’s leftovers, whatever left overs I have :)
Savoury Oats for breakfast is probably one of the best things…ever :)