How To Thicken Oatmeal [4 Best Methods]
So you’re looking forward to a delicious, hearty breakfast of oatmeal, only to find that your oats are just way too watery to enjoy.
In this guide, I’m going to share with you some quick and easy methods for how to thicken oatmeal, using ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen.
When cooked just right, oats should be slightly chewy, creamy, and never gluey or watery.
Here’s how you can make a few simple changes to achieve that perfect texture…
1. Add Thickening Agents, like Flours & Seeds
Thickening agents are employed in cooking to increase the thickness and volume of food without altering its flavour.
Let’s explore some suitable thickening agents that will give your oatmeal the desired texture…
Coconut flour is a great alternative to all-purpose flour for thickening oatmeal.
Its strong thickening properties allow you to achieve thicker results with less quantity.
Besides being an excellent thickener, coconut flour also adds nutritious value to your oatmeal.
To use it, simply add one or two tablespoons of coconut flour to your cooked oatmeal, stir well, and allow it to sit for a minute.
Other thickening agents you can consider include:
- Flax meal: Ground flaxseed or flaxseed meal works well in absorbing excess liquid and providing a thicker consistency.
- Chia seeds: These small seeds swell up and create a gel-like consistency when mixed with liquids, making them an ideal thickening agent.
- Cornstarch: This common thickening agent can also be used in oatmeal, though it may need to be mixed with a little cold water first to prevent lumps.
- Arrowroot powder: Another gluten-free thickening option, arrowroot powder, can be mixed directly into your oatmeal to achieve the desired thickness.
Xanthan gum is also a popular gluten-free thickening agent, often used in pastries, sauces, and smoothies.
By incorporating one or more of these thickening agents into your oatmeal, you can easily achieve the desired consistency without compromising the flavour or health benefits of your meal.
2. Add Liquids
When you don’t have a thickening agent at hand, fear not!
Your kitchen is likely stocked with liquids that are perfect for your oatmeal.
Keep in mind, however, that the liquid you choose will impact the flavour of your oatmeal.
Milk is a popular choice, though coconut cream, juice, and even water can serve the same purpose.
The key is to perform a reduction, which involves simmering the liquid and oatmeal on the stove until it thickens.
This helps the oats absorb the liquid, increasing the volume and thickness.
Liquid-adjacent ingredients like yoghurt and egg whites prove to be excellent choices too.
Any type of yoghurt works, but be aware that its flavour will directly affect your oatmeal.
After cooking the oats, stir in yoghurt to fully benefit from its creamy texture.
Egg whites are not uncommon among oatmeal enthusiasts.
As egg whites soak up any added flavours, you might need to increase the seasoning to keep your oatmeal tasty.
Using an entire egg is discouraged due to the overpowering taste of egg yolks.
For a fruity twist, consider adding a smoothie to your oatmeal.
Smoothies work well for thickening when poured in after cooking, without disrupting the oats too much.
3. Incorporate Fruits and Vegetables
To make your oatmeal wholesome and tasty, try blending various fruits and vegetables and mixing them into your meal.
This addition not only enhances the flavour but also provides essential nutrients for your daily intake.
Certain fruits and vegetables blend better in oatmeal than others.
Bananas, for instance, are an excellent choice due to their smooth, creamy texture.
Simply mash or blend the banana and mix it into your oatmeal for a thicker consistency.
I like to also add a few pinches of cinnamon and a sprinkle of brown sugar for extra deliciousness!
In case you don’t have bananas or prefer other options, alternatives include applesauce, pumpkin puree, mashed berries, and most pureed fruits.
You can even boost your oatmeal’s nutritional value by adding leafy greens.
Just ensure to blend the greens thoroughly, ideally in milk or water to achieve a smoother texture.
While this may give your oatmeal an unusual colour, it makes the meal more filling and nutrient-rich.
4. Add Nut Butters, Protein Powders, or Other Delicious Ingredients!
There are many exciting ingredients you can add to your oatmeal to not only enhance its flavour, but also improve its nutritional profile and consistency.
Let’s explore some of these lovely accompaniments…
Silken Tofu – If you’re vegan or can’t eat eggs and are looking for an alternative to egg whites for thickening your oatmeal, try silken tofu.
It’s a tasteless substitute that, once added, is almost undetectable. Simply whip a quarter cup of silken tofu and mix it into the cooked oats using a hand whisk or a stick blender.
Nut Butters – Offering a rich and creamy texture, nut butters can also help thicken your oatmeal.
Their flavours pair well with the taste of oats, making them a delightful addition to your breakfast.
Stick to just one or two tablespoons, added to the cooked oats, to achieve the desired consistency.
Some popular choices include:
- Almond Butter – Provides a smooth, creamy texture
- Cashew Butter – Creamier and lighter than almond butter, making it a preferred option for some
- Peanut Butter – A classic choice for peanut lovers
If you find the nut butter is causing your oats to clump too much, simply add some water or milk to loosen it up, resulting in a perfect bowl of oatmeal.
Other ingredients to consider for a fun and delicious oatmeal experience are:
- Chocolate – A small amount can add indulgence without being unhealthy. I like to use a high quality dark variety!
- Brown Sugar – A sprinkle can provide an extra touch of sweetness
- Protein Powder – Enhances the nutritional value and can add flavour
- Cinnamon – A pinch goes a long way in adding warmth to your meal
- Salt – Don’t forget a pinch to balance the flavours
- Coconut Cream – A dollop brings a tropical flair and healthy fats
- Healthy Fats – Consider incorporating avocado, flaxseed oil, or chia seeds for added nutrition
Incorporating these varied ingredients will not only ensure that your oatmeal stays fresh and appealing, but also enhance its nutritional profile to kickstart your day in the best possible way.
Try these methods for how to thicken oatmeal, and don’t forget to leave a comment below with your favourite choices!
