Plain Oatmeal Really?

Oct 8, 2020 | Written by Leticia Padmasri

When I first tried oatmeal, it was the plainest most boring thing I had ever put in my mouth!

Ayurveda taught me to make food not only medicinal but also delicious (which by the way is part of making something medicinal).

I played and played and came up with my fav version of oatmeal. I should say versions because it changes according to the seasons and what’s going on individually with me or my husband.

 Here is my version for the fall – a more vata-pacifying oatmeal. It will serve two.

Padmasri’s Oatmeal

INGREDIENTS:

*BEST IF ALL ORGANIC

1 cup rolled oats

3 dates

½ t ghee

¼ t fresh grated ginger

2 to 3-inch cinnamon stick (slice it in half to better release its deliciousness)

¼ t ground cinnamon

¼ t ground cardamom

¼ t cardamom seeds

Pinch of mineral salt

3 tbsp flax seeds (grind just before eating)

3 tbsp unsalted sunflower seeds or walnuts (toast them dry just before eating)

3 cups filtered water

PREPARATION:

1.     Soak the rolled oats and dates together overnight in 2 cups of filtered water (yes, you have to remember to do this, but if you want to eat healthy, planning is one of the most crucial elements!). Soaking the oats will help the oatmeal consistency, making it creamier.

2.     In the morning, remove the skin from the dates. The dates are our sweetener here.

3.     Warm the ghee in the pot then add the cardamon seeds and ginger. Sauté on low heat and for 30 seconds. Then add the remaining spices. Sauté for an additional 30 seconds or so. You are looking for that pleasant aroma released by these beautiful medicinal herbs. Once you get that registered by your olfactory apparatus in your brain, add the oats, dates and the water in which they were soaking on. Stir well.

4.     Add 1 more cup of water (Vata needs a soupier consistency). Or you could add oat milk instead. Boil for 3-5 minutes.

5.     Reduce to low heat and cook for 20 to 30 minutes. Stir it well so you can mix the sweetness of the dates throughout.

6.     Serve with the ground flax seeds and toasted sunflower seeds. It is best to have simple combinations to keep Vata balanced. When adding nuts and seeds, very small amounts are the way to go.

Starting the day with home cooked fresh food instead of cold milk and boxed cereal is the most important way to nourish a sustainable state of radiant health. Remember to always adjust recipes based on your dosha type or any imbalance you may be dealing with.