Oats aren’t just for sweet dishes; they can be deliciously savory, too.
With a little creativity, I can show you how these humble oats become a base for a satisfying and budget-friendly meal.
Savory porridge offers a balance of hearty ingredients that work wonderfully together. This new approach not only complements a tight budget but also opens up a world of flavors.
Savoury Porridge Recipe
What You Need
- 150g quick oats
- 1 chicken stock cube
- 450ml hot water
- 2 tbsp butter
- Juice from half a lemon or 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp Marmite (if you want)
- 1 tsp soy sauce (if ypu want)
How to Make It
- I start by tossing the oats, water, stock cube, butter, Marmite, soy sauce and some black pepper into a pot. Everything needs to be mixed together really well.
- I heat the mixture on medium heat until it becomes nice and thick, which takes about 3-5 minutes, stirring now and then.
- Once the porridge is done, I turn off the heat and add either lemon juice or balsamic vinegar. After tasting, I adjust the salt if needed.
- Then I divide the porridge into two servings and enjoy adding different toppings, like a fried egg or some crispy bacon.
Handy Tips
Using hot water helps dissolve the chicken stock quickly. The stock, soy sauce, and Marmite have enough salt, so I sometimes skip adding extra.
I often get creative with leftovers; adding veggies, cheese, or anything I find in the fridge. The porridge is both comforting and versatile, making it super easy to switch up with different flavors.
Enhancements and Variations
When I make savoury porridge, adding different ingredients can turn a simple bowl into a tasty meal packed with nutrients. From eggs to vegetables, there are plenty of ways to add flavor and make it more filling. Here’s how I like to enhance my savoury porridge.
Protein Boosters
Adding protein-rich ingredients can make porridge more satisfying. I often use eggs—fried, poached, or soft-boiled—depending on my mood.
Cheese can be a creamy addition, while tofu or tempeh are great for plant-based options. Sometimes, I stir in a spoonful of nutritional yeast for extra flavor and protein.
Including a mix of nuts and seeds like almonds or hemp hearts adds crunch and nutrition.
Toppings and Add-Ins
The right toppings can transform porridge into a rich feast. I adore mushrooms, tomatoes, avocado and green onions added during cooking for depth of flavor.
When it’s time to serve, I garnish with chives or wilted leafy greens like spinach or kale. A dash of soy sauce or a squeeze of lemon juice enhances the savory taste.
For a spicy kick, I drizzle some chili oil or toasted sesame oil.
Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to serve savoury porridge. I sometimes enjoy it alone. Other times, I pair it with slices of toast for a bit of texture.
It’s fun to experiment and find what combinations satisfy the taste buds. Sipping on some almond milk on the side helps balance out the flavors. It also adds some extra fibre that contributes to more sustained energy throughout the day.