If you’re tired of boring, tasteless oatmeal and wondering how to make masala oats at home, there is a great option for you! Masala oats are a perfect blend of health and taste. This dish combines fibre-rich oats with aromatic Indian spices and fresh vegetables, making it both nutritious and delicious.
Masala oats are not only easy to prepare, but they also support weight loss, improved digestion, and overall well-being. Whether you are looking to make a quick breakfast, a hearty lunch, or a light dinner, masala oats are a versatile option.
In this beginner’s guide, we will introduce you to every step of the process from ingredients to storage so that you can easily make masala oats at home.
How to Make Masala Oats at Home
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 tbsp ghee or oil (for tempering)
- 1 tsp mustard seeds
- 1 tsp cumin seeds
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 green chili, chopped (Adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp turmeric powder
- 1 tsp garam masala
- ½ tsp red chili powder
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup mixed veggies (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
- 2 cups water or vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
- Fresh coriander leaves for garnish
- lemon juice (Optional)
What Are Masala Oats?
Masala oats are a delicious oatmeal dish that comes from India, where “masala” means “a mixture of spices.” Unlike the sweet oatmeal that many Americans are familiar with, masala oats offer a spicy, satisfying flavor. It consists of rolled oats cooked with aromatic Indian spices, vegetables like carrots and peas, and sometimes a protein like paneer or tofu.
You can enjoy masala oats on their own or pair them with a boiled egg, Greek yogurt, or a cup of masala chai for the full experience.
How to Make Masala Oats at Home the Easy Way
This recipe is for individuals who want to enjoy masala oats but are unsure of how to prepare them. I will tell you everything in this blog. It takes about 20 minutes to make it.
Step 1. Prep the Veggies
- Chop all vegetables and have your spices ready. This step saves time while cooking.
Step 2. Sauté the Spices
- Heat oil or ghee in a non-stick or heavy-bottom pan. Add cumin seeds and mustard seeds. Let them roast for a few seconds until they become fragrant.
Step 3. Cook the Aromatics
- Add chopped onions and green chilies. Sauté until the onions turn translucent. Next, toss in tomatoes and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
Step 4. Add Veggies and Spices
- Now, add carrots and green peas. Sprinkle turmeric, red chili, coriander powder, and salt. Mix everything well and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
Step 5. Add Oats and Water
- Add rolled oats and water. Keep stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Let it cook on medium-low flame for 5-6 minutes or till the oats and vegetables are cooked completely.
Step 6. Garnish and Serve
- Add garam masala and lemon juice. Mix well and turn off the heat. Garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Tips for the Perfect Masala Oats
- Toast the oats before cooking for extra nuttiness.
- Adjust spice levels to suit your taste.
- Use vegetable broth instead of water for a deeper flavor.
- Add protein like boiled eggs, tofu, or paneer for a hearty meal.
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Here are some tasty twists:
- Cheesy Masala Oats: Stir in grated cheese before serving.
- Coconut Masala Oats: Add coconut milk for creaminess.
- Protein-Packed Oats: Mix in lentils or chickpeas.
Health Benefits of Masala Oats
Masala oats are one of those things that are quick to prepare, taste great, and are also good for health. If you are also thinking of eating healthy but do not want to compromise on taste, then these are perfect for you.
- Friend of the Stomach: It contains a good amount of fiber, which keeps your digestion healthy, and the stomach feels full for a long time.
- Helpful in Weight Loss: It is low in calories, so the stomach gets filled without eating too much – the best option for those on a diet.
- Health in Every Spoon: Turmeric, vegetables, and spices – all together make it not only tasty but also full of antioxidants.
- Heart-Related Problems? Oats are a Good Option: Oats help in reducing cholesterol, which keeps the heart healthy.
- Also Good for Diabetics: Oats have a low glycemic index, which means they release sugar slowly blood sugar remains under control.
And yes, the most important thing is – they are so easy that you can make them anytime, be it a rushed morning, a light afternoon craving, or a quick dinner.
How to Store and Reheat Masala Oats
Masala oats are perfect for meal prep. You can store leftovers or make a large batch in advance.
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions in containers for up to 2 weeks.
Reheating
- Microwave: Heat for 1–2 minutes with a splash of water.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a small pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Conclusion: How to Make Masala Oats
Now you know how to make masala oats at home. This delicious spicy recipe is proof that healthy food doesn’t have to be boring, whether you make it on a weekday or for breakfast, spiced oats are a healthy meal for you and your family. And what are you waiting for? Grab your apron and start cooking. Happy cooking!
Nutrition
Total Fat: 6g | Saturated Fat: 2g | Cholesterol: 16mg | Sodium: 220mg | Total Carbohydrate: 40g | Dietary Fiber: 7g | Total Sugars: 4g | Protein: 8g | Vitamin A: 5408IU | Vitamin C: 52mg | Calcium: 85mg | Iron: 2mg | Potassium: 540mg
FAQ
What are masala oats?
Masala oats are a savory Indian twist on regular oats, made by cooking oats with vegetables, spices, and herbs. Unlike the sweet version, masala oats are flavorful, spicy, and perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner. They’re healthy, filling, and easy to make at home.
How do you make masala oats at home?
To make masala oats at home, sauté chopped onions, tomatoes, ginger, garlic, and your favorite vegetables in a little oil. Add spices like turmeric, red chili powder, and garam masala. Stir in rolled oats and water (or vegetable broth), and cook for 5–7 minutes until the oats are soft and creamy. Garnish with coriander leaves and serve hot.
Are masala oats healthy?
Yes, masala oats are very healthy! They’re rich in fiber, low in fat, and packed with vitamins from fresh vegetables. Oats help manage cholesterol and support digestion, while the Indian spices add antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. Just watch your salt and oil to keep it heart-healthy.
Can I use instant oats to make masala oats?
Absolutely! Instant oats work well for a quick version of masala oats. Just reduce the cooking time to 3–4 minutes and adjust the water quantity so it doesn’t turn too mushy. If you prefer more texture, use rolled oats or steel-cut oats for a heartier dish.
What vegetables can I add to masala oats?
You can add a variety of vegetables to masala oats, such as carrots, peas, green beans, bell peppers, corn, spinach, and even broccoli. Fresh or frozen veggies both work well. The more colorful the veggies, the more nutritious and flavorful your masala oats will be.