Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats

These Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats are a delightful breakfast option that combines convenience with wholesome goodness. Perfect for busy mornings or leisurely weekends, this creamy and chewy oatmeal can be customized with your favorite toppings. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or simply craving a warm bowl of oats, this recipe stands out for its simplicity and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just a few minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious breakfast ready to go.
• Customizable Toppings: Add your favorite flavors with maple syrup, fruits, nuts, or nut butters to suit your taste.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy throughout the week for stress-free mornings.
• Nutritious Breakfast: Packed with fiber and protein, these oats will keep you full and energized.
• Hands-off Cooking: Let the Instant Pot do the work while you focus on other tasks.

Tools and Preparation

To make these Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats efficiently, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Instant Pot
• Measuring cups
• Mixing spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Instant Pot: This multi-cooker allows for quick pressure cooking, making your oats creamy and perfectly cooked in no time.
• Measuring Cups: Accurate measurements ensure consistent results every time you make this recipe.
• Mixing Spoon: A good mixing spoon helps combine ingredients smoothly for an even texture in your oatmeal.

Ingredients

These Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats are creamy, chewy oatmeal perfection! Cooking steel cut oats in the Instant Pot is an easy and hands-off way to make steel cut oatmeal. This recipe is perfect for make ahead breakfasts.

Oats Base

• 1 cup steel cut oats
• 3 cups water
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract

Toppings (as desired)

• Maple syrup
• Cinnamon
• Milk
• Flaxseed or chia seeds
• Fruit
• Nuts
• Peanut butter
• Almond butter

How to Make Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients as listed above. Measure out the steel cut oats, water, and vanilla extract.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients in Instant Pot

Place the steel cut oats, water, and vanilla extract into the Instant Pot. Stir well to mix all ingredients together evenly.

Step 3: Seal the Instant Pot

Close the lid securely on the Instant Pot. Ensure that the steam release valve is set to the sealing position.

Step 4: Set Cooking Time

Select the Pressure Cook/Manual function on your Instant Pot. Set the cook time to 4 minutes at high pressure. The pot will take a few minutes to build pressure before starting the countdown.

Step 5: Natural Release

Once cooking is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for at least 15-20 minutes. Do not rush this step; it allows flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Finish Up

After natural release, carefully move the steam valve to venting position to release any remaining steam. Open the lid cautiously. Stir the oats gently before serving them in bowls with your choice of toppings.

Enjoy your deliciously creamy Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats, tailored exactly how you like them!

How to Serve Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats

Serving Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats can be a delightful experience, as you can customize each bowl to suit your taste preference. With a variety of toppings and mix-ins, every serving can be unique and exciting!

Sweet Toppings

• Maple Syrup: A classic choice that adds sweetness and a rich flavor.
• Cinnamon: Sprinkle a dash for warmth and spice; it pairs perfectly with oats.
• Fresh Fruit: Add berries, banana slices, or apples for a burst of freshness and natural sweetness.
• Nut Butters: Drizzle peanut butter or almond butter for creaminess and added protein.

Savory Options

• Nuts: Top with almonds, walnuts, or pecans for crunch and healthy fats.
• Seeds: Flaxseed or chia seeds can boost nutrition and add texture.
• Greek Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt provides creaminess and tang, along with extra protein.

How to Perfect Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats

To achieve the ideal texture for your Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats, follow these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Oats: Ensure your steel cut oats are fresh for the best texture and flavor.
• Rinse Before Cooking: Rinsing oats before cooking removes dust or debris and can enhance their creaminess.
• Adjust Liquid According to Preference: For creamier oats, use slightly more water than the recipe calls for.
• Natural Release is Key: Allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release steam ensures the oats continue to cook gently after pressure cooking.

Best Side Dishes for Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats

Pair your Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats with delicious side dishes that complement their flavor. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a crunchy contrast.
2. Smoothie Bowl: Blend your favorite fruits into a smoothie bowl topped with nuts or seeds.
3. Hard-Boiled Eggs: Serve alongside hard-boiled eggs for a protein-packed breakfast option.
4. Avocado Toast: Enjoy creamy avocado on toasted bread as a satisfying side.
5. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad adds freshness and balances the richness of the oats.
6. Cottage Cheese: Serve cottage cheese on the side for added protein and creaminess.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking steel cut oats in the Instant Pot can be easy, but some common mistakes can affect your results. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Boldly ignoring water ratios: Using too little or too much water can lead to dry or soupy oats. Always stick to the 1:3 ratio of oats to water for perfect consistency.
• Boldly skipping the natural release: Not allowing the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure can result in undercooked oats. Be patient and let it sit for 15-20 minutes after cooking.
• Boldly neglecting stirring: Failing to stir the oats before serving may lead to uneven texture. Give them a good stir after cooking to ensure they’re creamy and well-mixed.
• Boldly overlooking toppings: Eating plain oats can be boring! Experiment with various toppings like fruits, nuts, or nut butter to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Boldly misjudging cooking time: Setting an incorrect cook time can ruin your dish. Stick to the recommended 4 minutes at high pressure for ideal results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store cooked steel cut oats in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Container: Use airtight containers to keep them fresh.

Freezing Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats

• Duration: You can freeze cooked oats for up to 3 months.
• Container: Use freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring you remove excess air.

Reheating Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats

• Boldly using the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake the oats in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15 minutes.
• Boldly microwaving: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of water or milk, and heat on high for about 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Boldly using the Stovetop: Heat on low in a saucepan, adding a little water or milk until warmed through while stirring consistently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats?

Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats are oatmeal made from whole grain groats that have been cut into pieces. They provide a chewy texture and nutty flavor.

How long does it take to make Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats?

The total time is about 35 minutes, including pressure building and natural release time, but actual cooking only takes 4 minutes.

Can I customize my Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats?

Absolutely! You can customize them with fruits, nuts, sweeteners, or spices according to your taste preferences.

Are Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats healthy?

Yes! They are high in fiber and protein, making them a nutritious breakfast option that keeps you full longer.

Conclusion

These Instant Pot Steel Cut Oats offer creamy texture and nutty flavors that anyone can enjoy. They are perfect for meal prep and can be easily customized with your favorite toppings for variety. Give this recipe a try and enjoy nutritious breakfasts all week long!

---