Savory Oat Pilaf Recipes

COCONUT OAT PILAF

Steps:

• Put oil or butter in a pot with a tight-fitting lid over medium-high heat. When oil is hot or butter melts, add oats and ginger and stir until coated. Add spices and a pinch each of salt and pepper; stir until fragrant, just a minute or two.
• Stir in 2 1/2 cups water, bring to a boil, and reduce heat so mixture gently bubbles. Cook undisturbed, until most of the water has been absorbed and holes begin to appear on surface, 5 to 7 minutes. Cover, remove from heat, and let sit for at least 10 (or up to 20) minutes.
• Meanwhile, toast coconut in a skillet over medium-low heat, shaking pan and stirring until it is toasted and fragrant, several minutes (watch carefully that it does not burn). Toss coconut and cilantro into oats, fluffing mixture with a fork. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot or at room temperature.

SAVORY OATMEAL WITH GREENS AND YOGURT

Steps:

• Heat oven to 350 degrees.
• Make the toasted oat and nut topping: Mix the oats, almonds, pumpkin seeds and hemp seeds together in a small bowl with salt and olive oil. Transfer to a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes, or just until fragrant and lightly toasted.
• Make the oatmeal: In a small saucepan, bring 1 cup water to a boil, then add the oats and a pinch of salt. Reduce to a low simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let steam for an additional 10 minutes.
• Meanwhile, prepare the greens: Heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a medium skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil begins to shimmer, add the garlic and crushed red pepper. (The garlic should just sizzle but not brown.) Then add the greens, salt to taste, and briefly wilt for around one minute (but no longer than two); turn with tongs to evenly cook.
• Place the oatmeal in the bowl, surround with greens and pan juices, and garnish with about 1 tablespoon toasted oat and nut topping. Finish with a dollop of yogurt and freshly ground pepper. Sprinkle with a little salt and a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

SAVORY OAT PILAF

Steps:

• In 3-quart saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook about 5 minutes or until softened.
• Add broth and water; heat to boiling. Gradually stir in oats. Using coarse side of grater, grate carrots into oat mixture. Reduce heat; simmer 20 minutes or until oats are soft and creamy.
• Stir in peas. Cook 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until peas are thoroughly heated.
• Remove pilaf from heat. Stir in parsley, lemon peel and ground red pepper. Season to taste with salt and pepper.