Oats are a great breakfast food that can be made in a variety of ways.
Most people tend to cook them with milk, which can make them a bit too rich and filling. But can you also cook them with water?
Oats can definitely be cooked with water, although you may need to cook them for a bit longer in order to soften them up. If you are looking for a lighter breakfast option, then cooking oats with water is a good choice. They can still taste great and provide you with plenty of energy in the morning.
So if you want to try something a little different for breakfast, why not cook your oats with water instead?
Let’s now go ahead and take a look at what type of oats work best with water.
Types Of Oats That Work Well With Water
There are many different types of oats, each with slightly different cooking requirements.
Some types, such as steel-cut and rolled oats, require a longer cooking time when prepared with water, while others, such as instant, porridge or quick oats, can be cooked more quickly.
In general, most types of oats can be cooked with water.
However, you may need to adjust the amount of water or cooking time depending on the type of oats you are using.
When it comes to cooking times, steel-cut oats will take around 20 minutes to cook, while rolled oats can be ready in as little as 5 minutes.
If you are using quick, porridge or instant oats, then they can be cooked in just a few minutes.
How Much Water Do I Add To Oatmeal?
The amount of water you add to oatmeal depends on how many servings you are making.
If you are cooking for one person, then you will typically use about 1 cup of water per serving.
You can always experiment with different amounts to find the perfect balance between texture and flavor.
Generally, quick or instant oats will absorb less water than rolled oats or steel-cut oats.
As a result, you may need to use less water when cooking quick oats, or cook them for a shorter period of time.
If you are unsure about how much water to use or how long to cook your oats, refer to the package directions. This will give you the best guidance on how to cook the oats properly.
I personally like to use less water when cooking oats, since I prefer a heartier texture. But feel free to try and find what works best for you!
To cook oats with water, simply bring a pot of water to a boil and then add the desired amount of oats.
Stir occasionally, and cook until the oats are soft and have absorbed most of the water.
Make sure to cook the oats on a low heat so they don’t stick to the bottom of the pot and burn.
If you’d like your oats a little bit more creamier, adding a small amount of (plant-based) milk to your oatmeal will help you achieve this.
Serve with fresh fruit, honey, or your favorite toppings and enjoy!
Are Oats Better With Water Or Milk?
Cooking oats with water is a great way to make a filling breakfast. Oats are packed with nutrients and fiber, which will generally help you feel satisfied throughout the morning.
However, some people prefer to cook their oats with milk for a deeper flavor and creamier texture.
If you are looking for a more indulgent breakfast, then cooking oats with milk might be the way to go.
But if you are trying to watch your calorie intake or you are looking for a lighter breakfast option, then cooking oats with water is a good choice.
How To Cook Oats With Water In The Microwave
One of the quickest and easiest ways to cook oats with water is in the microwave.
Simply add 1 cup of oats and 1-2 cups of water (depending on how many servings you are making) to a microwave-safe bowl or mug.
Cover and cook on high for 1-3 minutes, depending on the power level of your microwave.
If you are using quick or instant oats, they should only need 1-2 minutes to cook.
Rolled or steel-cut oats might take a minute or two longer.
Once the oats are cooked, stir in a bit of milk or honey for creaminess and sweetness if desired and enjoy!
Can You Make Overnight Oats With Water?
Overnight oats are a delicious and convenient breakfast option, and they can be made with water instead of milk.
To make overnight oats, simply combine 1 cup of oats with 1 cup of water (or more if you are making a larger batch) in a bowl or jar.
Stir in any desired flavorings and toppings, such as honey, fruit, or spices.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 8 hours, or overnight.
In the morning, give the oats a good stir and enjoy!
Can You Make Baked Oats With Water?
Baked oats are a great way to make a delicious breakfast, and they can be made with water instead of milk.
To make baked oats for one serving, simply combine 1 cup of oats with 1 cup of water in a bowl.
Stir in any desired flavorings and toppings, such as honey, fruit, or spices.
I personally love to add in some apple and cinnamon. Makes me feel like I’m having apple pie for breakfast!
Another tasty option is adding some cherries to your baked oats.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish and bake at 350 degrees until the oats are cooked through and lightly browned, about 20-30 minutes.
If desired, you can top off the baked oats with some unsalted nuts.
Other Questions You May Have
Can I Use A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot To Make Oatmeal?
Both slow cookers and Instant Pots are great tools for making oatmeal. The cooking time and liquid ratio might vary slightly, so refer to your appliance’s manual for the specific instructions.
How Can I Make Creamy Oatmeal?
To achieve a creamy texture, use a higher ratio of liquid to oats, and cook them at a lower heat. You can also stir in a splash of milk, coconut milk or almond milk near the end of cooking.
Can I Make Savory Oatmeal With Just Water?
Oatmeal doesn’t have to be sweet. Try adding a mixture of water and broth for a savory flavor, or experiment with other seasonings and ingredients like peanut butter or chia seeds for different variations.
Can I Make A Big Batch Of Oatmeal And Store It For Later?
You can make a big batch of oatmeal and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat with a splash of milk or water when you’re ready to enjoy it again. It’s a convenient option for quick breakfasts.
Is There A Difference In Cooking Time For Different Types Of Oats?
The cooking time of oats depends on the specific type of oats. Old-fashioned oats and quick-cooking oats cook faster than steel-cut oats or whole oat groats. Be sure to follow the recommended cooking times for your chosen oats.
Can I Use A Combination Of Milk And Water For Oatmeal?
Combining milk and water is a popular choice for oatmeal. It adds creaminess and flavor. A common ratio is 1 cup of oats with 1 cup of milk and 1 cup of water, but you can adjust it to your liking.
What’s The Difference Between Oat Flakes And Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats?
Oat flakes and old-fashioned rolled oats are essentially the same thing. They are whole grains that have been flattened with steel blades, creating thin oat flakes. You can use them interchangeably in your oatmeal.
How Do I Make Oatmeal With A Chewy Texture?
To achieve a chewy texture in your oatmeal, use a lower ratio of water to oats and cook them for a shorter period. This will create a nice, slightly firm consistency.
What’s The Best Way To Store Leftover Oatmeal?
To keep your oatmeal fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat it with a splash of milk or water to restore its creamy texture.
Final Thoughts
So if you’re a fan of oatmeal and you’re looking for an alternative to cooking with milk, water can be a great substitute!
Whether you like to make regular oatmeal or overnight oats, making oats with water is a great option.
The cooking time will depend on the type of oats you’re using, but generally speaking, it will take between 5 (rolled-oats) and 20 minutes (steel-cut oats).
And cooking with water is also a great way to cut down on calories without sacrificing too much on flavor or texture.
Give it a try and see for yourself how delicious oats can be when cooked with water!