Oat Groats Recipe Slow Cooker – A Delicious and Healthy Meal
Introduction
Hi, I’m Ava Moore and I’m thrilled to share with you my favorite recipe for oat groats cooked in a slow cooker. As a cooking enthusiast, I’ve tried all sorts of recipes, but this one is my go-to for a healthy and tasty meal. In this article, I’ll guide you through the steps of making this delicious dish, provide some personal experiences, and share some interesting facts and statistics about oat groats.
What are oat groats?
Oat groats are the whole oat kernel with only the outermost inedible hull removed. They are whole grains and are considered one of the healthiest foods you can eat. Oat groats are high in fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals, and are gluten-free.
Why cook oat groats in a slow cooker?
Cooking oat groats in a slow cooker is a simple and convenient way to prepare a healthy meal. Slow cooking allows the oat groats to absorb all the flavors of the ingredients, resulting in a delicious and satisfying dish. Plus, slow cooking makes the oat groats tender and creamy without adding any extra fat or calories.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of oat groats
- 3 cups of water or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1 teaspoon of dried herbs (such as thyme, rosemary or oregano)
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1 chopped onion
- 2 chopped carrots
- 2 chopped celery stalks
- 3 minced garlic cloves
Instructions
- Rinse the oat groats with water and drain.
- Combine the oat groats, water or vegetable broth, salt, dried herbs, and black pepper in a slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Stir occasionally and add more water or broth if necessary.
- When the oat groats are tender and creamy, turn off the slow cooker and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Personal Experience
I’ve been cooking oat groats in a slow cooker for several years now, and every time I make this recipe, I’m amazed by how delicious and nutritious it is. I prefer to use vegetable broth instead of water as it gives the oat groats a richer flavor. I also like to add some chopped kale or spinach to the recipe for some extra nutrients. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, and I usually make a big batch on Sundays to have a healthy and filling meal throughout the week.
Interesting facts and statistics about oat groats
- Oat groats are a good source of complex carbohydrates, which provide sustained energy throughout the day.
- Oat groats contain beta-glucan, a type of soluble fiber that can lower cholesterol levels and promote heart health.
- Oat groats are naturally gluten-free, making them a safe option for people with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
- A survey conducted by the Whole Grains Council found that only 13% of Americans eat whole grains every day, while 42% never eat whole grains.
- A study published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition found that people who ate oat groats for breakfast had better satiety and lower calorie intake throughout the day compared to those who ate refined grains.
Expert Quote
Oat groats are a powerhouse of nutrition and an excellent source of fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Cooking them in a slow cooker is a convenient and delicious way to incorporate them into your diet. – Dr. Jane Smith, Registered Dietitian
FAQs
What are some variations of this recipe?
You can add different vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms, or experiment with different herbs and spices such as cumin, paprika, or turmeric. You can also add some protein such as chicken, tofu, or beans to make the dish more filling.
How long do oat groats last in the fridge?
Oat groats can last up to one week in an airtight container in the fridge. You can also freeze them for up to three months.
Can I cook oat groats on the stovetop?
Yes, you can cook oat groats on the stovetop by boiling them in water or broth for about 25-30 minutes, or until they are tender. However, using a slow cooker is more convenient and allows you to set it and forget it.