Instant Pot Vegan Steel Cut Oats Recipe

Steel-cut oats: These are whole oat groats that have been chopped into pieces, offering a chewy texture and nutty flavor.

Water: Used to cook the oats and soften them.

Almond milk: A dairy-free milk alternative that adds creaminess to the oats.

Salt: Enhances the flavors of the oats and other ingredients.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the oats.

Maple syrup: A natural sweetener that complements the nutty flavor of the oats.

To enhance the creaminess of your steel-cut oats, consider toasting them in the Instant Pot on the sauté setting for a few minutes before adding the water and almond milk. This will bring out a nutty flavor and add depth to your dish.

• steel-cut oats - Substitute with rolled oats: Rolled oats cook faster and have a softer texture compared to steel-cut oats.

• water - Substitute with coconut water: Coconut water adds a subtle sweetness and extra nutrients.

• almond milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk has a creamy texture and is a good alternative for those with nut allergies.

• salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a more complex flavor and contains trace minerals.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile.

• maple syrup - Substitute with agave nectar: Agave nectar is a vegan sweetener with a lower glycemic index.

• Allow the steel-cut oats to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make the oats soggy.
• Transfer the cooled oats into an airtight container. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids work best to maintain freshness.
• Store the container in the refrigerator. The oats will stay fresh for up to 5 days, making them perfect for meal prep.
• For freezing, portion the oats into individual servings. Use freezer-safe containers or resealable plastic bags to make reheating easier.
• Label each container or bag with the date. This helps you keep track of how long the oats have been stored.
• Place the containers or bags flat in the freezer. This ensures even freezing and saves space.
• When ready to eat, thaw the oats in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain the texture.
• Reheat the thawed oats on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of almond milk or water to restore the creamy consistency.
• Stir in additional vanilla extract or maple syrup if desired. This refreshes the flavor after storage.
• Top with your favorite fruits, nuts, or spices before serving. This adds a fresh and vibrant touch to your reheated oats.

• Stovetop Method: Place the leftover steel-cut oats in a saucepan. Add a splash of almond milk or water to loosen them up. Heat over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This method helps maintain the creamy texture.

• Microwave Method: Transfer the oats to a microwave-safe bowl. Add a bit of almond milk or water to prevent them from drying out. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Continue heating in 30-second intervals if needed until hot.

• Instant Pot Method: Use the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add the leftover oats and a splash of almond milk or water. Stir frequently until the oats are heated evenly. This method is quick and keeps the oats from sticking to the pot.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the oats in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Add a bit of almond milk or water to keep them moist. Bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through. This method is great if you're reheating a large batch.

• Instant Pot: A multi-functional electric pressure cooker used to cook the steel-cut oats quickly and efficiently.

• Measuring cups: Used to accurately measure the steel-cut oats, water, and almond milk.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt, vanilla extract, and maple syrup precisely.

• Spatula: Useful for stirring the ingredients together and ensuring they are well mixed.

• Serving bowls: Used to serve the warm steel-cut oats once they are cooked.

• Lid: The lid for the Instant Pot, essential for sealing the pot and allowing it to build pressure.

• Valve: The part of the Instant Pot lid that needs to be set to sealing to cook under high pressure.

• Timer: Used to keep track of the cooking time and the natural pressure release time.

Prep ingredients ahead: Measure out the steel-cut oats, water, and almond milk the night before to save time in the morning.

Use the delay start function: Set your Instant Pot to start cooking before you wake up, so your steel-cut oats are ready when you are.

Batch cooking: Make a larger batch and store portions in the fridge or freezer for quick reheating throughout the week.

Quick toppings: Have your favorite toppings like fruits, nuts, and seeds prepped and ready to go.