7- Minutes Tasty Oatmeal Soup Recipe – A Nutrient Dense Recipe

When mornings get chilly, warmth beckons from the kitchen. Enter oatmeal soup, a timeless classic. This isn’t your average bowl of oats. We’re talking about a savory blend, perfect for those seeking comfort and nutrition in one dish.

Often hailed for their fiber-rich glory, oats take on a new role here. Paired with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, they transform into a fulfilling meal. Every spoonful promises a balance of crunch and creaminess. 

What Is Oatmeal Soup?

Oatmeal soup is a savory dish where traditional oatmeal meets hearty soup ingredients. Instead of a sweet breakfast profile, this soup features oats cooked with vegetables, herbs, and sometimes meats or broths. 

The result is a rich, creamy texture infused with savory flavors. It is a comforting meal and offers the nutritional benefits of oats, such as fiber and essential nutrients. Oatmeal soup is a nourishing twist on a classic grain, perfect for cold days.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

Keto

• Replace the milk with a high-fat, low-carb option like heavy cream or a mix of almond milk and cream.
• Omit rolled oats (as they are high in carbs), and consider using hemp hearts or chia seeds for thickness and a bit of texture.
• Increase the celery and add other low-carb veggies like cauliflower or broccoli.

Paleo

• Omit the traditional oats and consider using a grain-free substitute like cauliflower rice for texture.
• Replace regular milk with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut milk.

Gluten-Free

• Ensure you’re using certified gluten-free oats. Oats are naturally gluten-free but can often be cross-contaminated with gluten in processing facilities.
• Check all other ingredients and seasonings for hidden gluten sources.

Whole30

• Omit rolled oats as they’re not Whole30 compliant. Use ingredients like cauliflower rice or diced vegetables for bulk.
• Replace milk with a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk. Ensure it has no added sugars or non-compliant additives.

Vegetarian

• The basic oatmeal soup recipe given previously is already vegetarian. Just ensure that any broth or additional ingredients you might want to add are also vegetarian.

Vegan

• Substitute the milk with a plant-based alternative such as almond, soy, coconut, or oat milk.
• Ensure any added ingredients or seasonings are free from animal-derived components.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Broth-Based: Replace milk with vegetable, chicken, or beef broth for a less creamy, more soup-like consistency.
• Spiced-Up: Add spices like cumin, coriander, or paprika for an added kick.
• Asian Twist: Incorporate ingredients like ginger, garlic, and a splash of soy sauce or sesame oil.

Add-Ons

• Proteins: Add diced chicken, turkey, tofu, or even seafood like shrimp for an extra dose of protein.
• Vegetables: Incorporate carrots, onions, bell peppers, or tomatoes. For a more hearty soup, potatoes or sweet potatoes are great.
• Legumes: Beans, lentils, or chickpeas can provide added nutrition and make the soup even heartier.
• Grains: While oats are the star, consider adding a handful of quinoa, barley, or rice for additional texture.

Toppings

• Cheese: A sprinkle of grated parmesan, cheddar, or crumbled feta can add a rich flavor.
• Herbs: Freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, dill, or basil add both taste and visual appeal.
• Seeds and Nuts: Toasted almonds, pumpkin seeds, or sunflower seeds can give a crunchy contrast.
• Drizzles: A touch of olive oil, truffle oil, or even a dash of hot sauce can elevate the taste.

Can I Make Oatmeal Soup Recipe In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker Method

• Preparation: Begin by gathering your ingredients. Minced celery, milk, salt, and rolled oats will be required.
• Combining Ingredients: Pour the milk into the slow cooker, followed by the minced celery, salt, and oats. Stir everything to ensure even distribution.
• Cooking: Set your slow cooker on the low setting. Allow the mixture to cook for 2 to 3 hours, occasionally stirring to prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom.
• Serving: Once the oatmeal soup reaches your desired consistency, serve it hot. Use additional garnishes or seasonings as needed.

Instant Pot Method

• Preparation: Have your ingredients ready: minced celery, milk, salt, and rolled oats.
• Sautéing Celery (Optional): Turn on the Instant Pot’s Sauté function. Add a small amount of butter or oil, then sauté the minced celery for a few minutes until it softens slightly. This can enhance the celery’s flavor but is not a necessary step.
• Combining Ingredients: Cancel the Sauté function. Add the milk, salt, and oats to the pot. Give everything a good stir.
• Pressure Cooking: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to ‘Porridge’ mode or manually set it to ‘High Pressure’ for 10 minutes.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Store-Bought Broth

• Convenience: One of the primary reasons to use store-bought broth is the convenience. It’s ready to use and can save a lot of time.
• Consistency: Store-bought broths generally have a consistent flavor, which can be helpful when you want predictable results.
• Variety: Multiple varieties are available, including low-sodium, organic, and bone broths.
• Salt Content: Some store-bought broths can be high in sodium. If you’re watching your salt intake, opt for a low-sodium version.

Homemade Broth

• Flavor Control: Making your own broth allows you to control the depth of flavor. You can roast bones, add vegetables, and season to your liking.
• No Additives: Homemade broth is free from preservatives and other additives you might want to avoid.
• Cost-effective: Making broth can be economical if you frequently have leftover vegetable scraps or bones.
• Versatility: You can make broths that might not be readily available in stores, such as fish broth or a broth from specific vegetables.

How To Serve ?

• Warm Bowls: Before pouring in the soup, pre-warm the bowls. You can do this by filling them with hot water for a minute or two (then dumping out the water) or by placing them in an oven set to a low temperature for a few minutes. This ensures that the soup remains hot when served.
• Garnish: Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs, a dash of black pepper, or even a dollop of yogurt or cream on top for a pop of color and enhanced flavor.
• Texture: Introduce crunchy elements such as toasted nuts, seeds, or croutons. This provides a delightful contrast to the creamy consistency of the oatmeal soup.
• Serve with Sides: Oatmeal soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even a slice of cheesy toast. Serving with a side can make the meal feel more complete.
• Use Quality Tableware: Serve the soup in clean, elegant bowls. Using quality tableware can elevate even the simplest of dishes.
• Drizzle: Enhance the visual appeal by drizzling a little olive oil, cream, or even a flavored oil (like truffle or herb oil) over the soup.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: This is a classic pairing with any soup. The crunchy exterior and soft interior of freshly baked bread or a baguette can be perfect for dipping.
• Cheese Toast: A slightly crisp toast with melted cheese on top offers a delightful cheesy crunch.
• Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing can provide a crisp and refreshing contrast to the creamy soup.
• Grilled Vegetables: Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, asparagus, or eggplant can add a smoky flavor profile that contrasts with the mild taste of oatmeal soup.
• Roasted Chickpeas: These offer a crispy element and a protein boost.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup up to 2 days in advance, allowing flavors to meld for a richer taste.
• Storage: Cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Texture Check: Oatmeal can absorb liquid over time, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating if needed to maintain desired consistency.
• Garnish Fresh: Add fresh herbs or a drizzle of cream upon serving to refresh flavors and enhance presentation.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Reheat and Eat: The simplest option, enjoy it another day as a quick meal.
• Transform into a Sauce: Thicken the soup with a roux or cornstarch and pour over pasta, rice, or protein.
• Use as a Base: Add new ingredients like pasta, grains, or protein to create a different dish.
• Soup Popsicles: Freeze in popsicle molds for a savory treat during hot days.
• Blend: Puree the leftovers and serve as a creamy soup or sauce.
• Casserole: Use the soup as a wet ingredient in baked dishes.
• Stir-fry: Reduce the liquid and mix with vegetables or protein for a stir-fry.
• Pie Filling: Use as a base for pot pies.
• Dehydrate: Make into soup concentrates or crackers.
• Bread Dip: Use thicker soups as dips for bread or crackers.

TIPS

• Grain Selection: Choose steel-cut oats for a hearty texture and nutty flavor.
• Vegetable Base: Start with a flavorful vegetable broth or stock for a robust foundation.
• Saute Aromatics: Sauté onions, garlic, and celery to build depth of flavor before adding oats and liquids.
• Creaminess Boost: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk for richness and silkiness.
• Seasoning Sensation: Season generously with salt, pepper, and herbs like thyme or parsley to elevate taste.

Nutrition Table