If you love a warm, comforting bowl of oatmeal but dread the cleanup, there’s a simple trick that will change your breakfast game. With just one small equipment swap, you can achieve creamier, quicker-cooking oats without dealing with a stubborn, sticky pot.
This brilliant method comes from food stylist, author, and TV personality Samantha Seneviratne, who picked up the technique in a test kitchen and found it invaluable when preparing meals for her toddler. The key? Use a nonstick skillet instead of a deep pot. The result: a smoother, richer texture that cooks in less time, plus an easy cleanup.
Why a Skillet Works Better
The wide surface area of a skillet allows more direct heat contact with the oats, helping them cook faster. Additionally, the shallow depth means better evaporation control, resulting in a creamier consistency. Unlike traditional deep pots, which can cause oatmeal to stick and require extra soaking, the nonstick skillet releases the oats effortlessly.
A Joyful Cocoa Almond Twist
Samantha’s cocoa almond oatmeal variation adds a delightful richness that makes breakfast feel like a treat. Inspired by the nostalgic appeal of chocolate cereals, this version incorporates almond butter for a creamy texture and cocoa powder for a deep chocolate flavor. Lightly sweetened with maple syrup, this oatmeal is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients.
Cocoa Almond Oatmeal Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup (50g) old-fashioned rolled oats
- 1 1/4 cups (300ml) unsweetened almond milk, plus more for serving
- 1 pinch fine sea salt
- 4 teaspoons cocoa powder
- 2 tablespoons creamy or chunky almond butter
- Maple syrup (optional, to taste)
Instructions:
- Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat.
- Add the oats, almond milk, and salt, stirring occasionally.
- Once the oats start absorbing the liquid and thickening (about 3-5 minutes), stir in the cocoa powder and almond butter.
- Cook for another minute, ensuring everything is well combined.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with maple syrup if desired.
- Serve with an extra splash of almond milk for added creaminess.
Versatile and Customizable
Beyond the cocoa almond version, this technique works beautifully with other flavors. Experiment with different nut butters, fruits, or spices to create your own signature oatmeal. Some delicious variations include:
- Raspberry-Cardamom: Fresh raspberries with a hint of warm spice.
- Banana-Cacao Nib: Mashed banana for natural sweetness and crunch from cacao nibs.
- Nutty Multigrain: A mix of grains like quinoa or farro for added texture and nutrition.
Effortless Cleanup
Since the oatmeal doesn’t stick to the pan, you’ll find that rinsing the skillet is a breeze—no more scrubbing stubborn residue from a deep pot. This means more time enjoying your breakfast and less time at the sink.
The Simply Genius Approach
This recipe was one of the first to be included in the Simply Genius cookbook, where Samantha shared even more variations. Whether you’re a parent looking for a quick, nutritious meal or just someone who enjoys a hassle-free morning, this trick makes oatmeal more accessible and enjoyable than ever.
So the next time you reach for a pot to make oatmeal, consider switching to a nonstick skillet. Your breakfast will be creamier, your cleanup easier, and your mornings a little more joyful.
