Quick cooking oats, also known as instant oats, are a type of oatmeal that is processed to cook rapidly. These oats are smaller and thinner flakes compared to other types of oats, such as rolled or steel-cut oats. This processing makes them ideal for those who need a quick and convenient breakfast or snack[1][2].
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To cook quick oats, you will need the following:
Quick Oats: These can be found in most grocery stores and are labeled as either “quick oats” or “instant oats.”
Water or Milk: You can use either water or milk (dairy or non-dairy) to cook the oats. Milk will yield a creamier oatmeal.
Salt: A pinch of salt is optional but can enhance the flavor.
Saucepan: A small to medium-sized saucepan (1.5 qt to 2 qt) is ideal for cooking quick oats.
Optional Toppings: Sliced fruit, Greek yogurt, nuts, or any other toppings of your choice[1].
How to Cook Quick Oats on the Stovetop
Cooking quick oats on the stovetop is a straightforward process:
Combine Ingredients:
Add the quick oats, water or milk, and a pinch of salt to a medium saucepan.
Cook:
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a simmer.
Once it simmers, reduce the heat to low and cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent the oats from burning at the bottom of the pan.
Rest & Serve:
After 3 minutes, turn off the heat and cover the saucepan. Let it sit for 1 to 2 minutes to thicken the oatmeal.
Serve the oatmeal warm in a bowl and add your favorite toppings[1].
Nutritional Benefits
Quick oats are highly nutritious and offer several health benefits:
Calories and Macronutrients: A 1/2 cup serving (40g) of quick oats contains approximately 150 calories, 5g of protein, 3g of fat, and 27g of carbohydrates[2][3].
Fiber and Vitamins: Quick oats are a good source of dietary fiber (4g per 40g serving) and various vitamins and minerals, including thiamin, iron, magnesium, and selenium[2][3].
Health Benefits: The beta-glucan in oats helps lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, slows digestion, and can aid in weight loss and managing blood sugar levels[2].
Differences from Other Oat Types
While quick oats are similar to rolled and steel-cut oats in terms of nutritional content, there are some key differences:
Processing: Quick oats are more finely processed than rolled oats and much more than steel-cut oats, making them cook faster.
Texture: Quick oats result in a smoother and more porridge-like consistency compared to the chewier texture of steel-cut oats and the slightly firmer texture of rolled oats[2].
Making Quick Oats from Old-Fashioned Oats
If you only have old-fashioned oats but need quick oats for a recipe, you can easily convert them:
Place old-fashioned oats in a food processor or blender.
Pulse the oats in short bursts until they are broken down into smaller flakes.
Stir the oats and pulse again if necessary.
Measure the processed oats and use them in your recipe[5].
Key Facts About Quick Cooking Oats
Cooking Ratio: Use a 2:1 ratio of liquid to quick oats (e.g., 1 cup liquid for ½ cup quick oats)[1].
Cooking Time: Quick oats cook in about 3 minutes on the stovetop[1].
Nutritional Content: Quick oats are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and offer health benefits such as lowering cholesterol and aiding in weight loss[2][3].
Interchangeable with Instant Oats: Quick oats and instant oats are used interchangeably due to their similar processing and cooking times[1].
Versatile: Can be cooked with water or milk and topped with a variety of ingredients to suit your taste preferences[1].
