oatmeal

Question
I am looking for a healthy oatmeal breakfast. At the moment I am eating organic fine oatflakes with cold water added, and no cooking. I was looking for a no-cook oatmeal recipe if possible so as to save time in the morning. I was wondering if you could please tell me which type of oats are the best to use in terms of nutritonal value? Thanks, Jenny.

Answer
Hello Jenny!

   Thank you for your nutrition question.  They are all basicly the same in nutrition value.  The only difference is how they are prepared.
 Oats are highly nutritious and filled with cholesterol-fighting soluble fiber.   They also have a pleasant, nutty flavor.  Most of us are familiar with rolled oats, which are used as a hot breakfast cereal and cookie ingredient, but many health food stores also stock oat groats and oat bran. Probably the lesser healthy form of oats would be instant oats.  These are very thin, precooked oats that need only be mixed with a hot liquid.  They usually have flavorings and salt added.  They're convenient, but not as chewy and flavorful as slower-cooking oats.

 Here is a recipe that is healthy and quick to prepare RAW ROCKY ROAD OATS

Chewy, chunky, nutty, and fruity describes this raw breakfast that's sure to make a frequent appearance on your breakfast table. Like many dishes in raw cuisine, it begins by putting up the grain to soak before bedtime. The next morning breakfast comes together quickly, bursting with goodness.


1/2 C. (118 ml) steel cut Scottish oats (McCann's is one well-known brand)
Water
1 large apple, cored and diced (do not peel)
1 Fuyu persimmon or Bosc pear, chopped or any favorite fruit in season
2 T. raw walnut pieces
2 T. raw pecan pieces
2 T. natural sesame seeds
2 T. flax seed meal
1/3 C. (79 ml) raisins
2 to 3 dashes ground cinnamon

1 ripe banana, mashed
1 T. chopped nuts


Put oats into a large bowl and cover with warm water by one-inch, and soak overnight.
In the morning, pour oats into a fine mesh strainer to drain off water. Transfer to a medium-size bowl.
Add grated apple, persimmon, nuts, seeds, raisins, and cinnamon and toss to combine ingredients.
Divide mixture into 2 bowls and top with mashed banana. An extra sprinkle of nuts on top gives each bowl a little extra visual appeal. Sit down and enjoy with a nice cup of herbal tea. Serves 3.

For more answers to your nutrition questions check out "Ask the Nutritionists" by George Rapitis at www.authorhouse.com or your favorite bookstore.

-George Rapitis, Bsc. Nutritionist
www.juiceblend.com

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