Oatmeal has long been one of my favorite breakfasts. My grandma would regularly make it for me with brown sugar, whole milk, and plenty of butter. It was more like a creamy soup with a scoop of slow-cooked oatmeal drenched in salty, sweet, buttery goodness. This version is a little less indulgent, but just as tasty and comforting. Plus, like many households, mornings are busy around here. So the simpler the breakfast, the better. This soaked oat-and-chia combination is quickly stirred together the night before and popped in the fridge, making breakfast while you sleep. It couldn’t be more perfect for smoothing over hectic mornings.
Key Components
Oats are a fabulous grain for people who are trying to eliminate or reduce gluten in their diet. Even oats that aren’t labeled as “gluten-free” are better tolerated by people with gluten sensitivities. But gluten doesn’t need to be a concern to start incorporating oats into your regular diet. With a high fiber content and unique antioxidant compounds, they are particularly beneficial for heart and digestive health. Soaking the oats, as we do in this recipe, makes them even easier to digest and therefore reap all their rewards.
Chia seeds are becoming more and more popular as the news of their benefits beyond sprouting into adorable “pets” (remember the Chia Pet?) spreads. Firstly, chia is one of the few plant sources to contain all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein (a status typically reserved for animal products). They provide plenty of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3s. Like most nuts, seeds, and grains, soaking them helps release all their powers.
Ingredients
- ⅓ cup rolled oats
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- ⅔ cup almond milk (preferably homemade)
- 1 mango, diced
- 1-2 tablespoons coconut milk
- 1-2 tablespoons pure maple syrup (preferably grade B)
- 1-2 tablespoons shredded unsweetened coconut
Instructions
- Combine oats, chia, and almond milk in a small bowl. Cover and refrigerate overnight (8 hours).
- Top with mango, coconut milk, syrup, and shredded coconut to taste. Eat. Be happy.
About The Naked South with Charlotte Abrams
Charlotte’s mission is to teach, inspire, and empower you to make small changes toward a healthier diet while enjoying all the deliciousness food has to offer. The healthy eating “rules” are always changing and everyone’s body has a different relationship with food, so The Naked South focuses on variety and moderation. No rules, no judgment, just inspired food your body will appreciate.
Comments are closed.