Steaming Hot Porridge: The Oven Method

Porridge is a breakfast staple, but did you know you can cook it in a steam oven? This method is simple and hands-off, allowing you to set and forget your breakfast while you get ready for the day. The result is a creamy and silky porridge that's just as good as stovetop porridge but without the hassle of constant stirring. Here's a step-by-step guide to making perfect porridge in a steam oven.

Porridge oats to water/milk ratio

The oats-to-water/milk ratio is a key factor in making porridge. The ratio you use will depend on your preference and the type of oats you are using. For rolled oats, a common ratio is 1:2 (oats to liquid), but some recipes suggest a ratio of 1:3 for a less stodgy consistency. For steel-cut oats, which take longer to cook and require more liquid, a ratio of 1:4 is recommended.

You can use either water or milk, or a combination of both, to make porridge. Using only water may result in a less tasty or textured porridge, while using only milk can make it too stodgy, especially if using full-fat milk. A 50/50 split between milk and water is often recommended, but you can adjust the ratio to suit your taste.

When making porridge in a steam oven, the amount of liquid used may be slightly less than when cooking on a stovetop. For example, one source recommends using half a cup of rolled oats and three-quarters of a cup of liquid for steam oven porridge.

How to prepare your steam oven

Preparing your steam oven for cooking porridge is simple and straightforward. Here are some steps to follow:

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients and Tools

Firstly, gather all the necessary ingredients for your porridge, such as oats, milk, water, and any desired toppings. Ensure you have a heatproof bowl or bowls, depending on the number of servings, that will fit in your steam oven.

Step 2: Prepare the Porridge Mixture

In each bowl, combine a half cup of rolled oats with three-quarters of a cup of liquid. You can use milk, water, or a combination of both, depending on your preference. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavour and give everything a quick stir to combine.

Step 3: Preheat the Steam Oven

Place the bowls of porridge mixture into the steam oven and set it to the desired temperature. Most recipes recommend a temperature of around 212°F/100°C for cooking porridge. Preheat the oven for about 5-10 minutes to ensure it reaches the desired temperature.

Step 4: Steam the Porridge

Once the oven is preheated, place the bowls of porridge on a wire rack inside the oven. Set the timer for around 15 minutes for the porridge to cook. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the consistency you prefer, so keep an eye on it to avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

When the porridge is cooked to your liking, remove the bowls from the oven, give the porridge a stir, and serve it into individual bowls. You can add extra milk or cream and top it with your favourite toppings, such as fresh or roasted fruits, nuts, maple syrup, or honey.

Additional Tips:

• If you are using steel-cut oats, melt some butter in an oven-proof casserole pan over medium heat, add the oats and toast them for a couple of minutes before adding the liquid. This step adds a nutty flavour and a luxurious texture to your porridge.
• You can also cook porridge in a Miele Gourmet Warming Drawer. Place the porridge oats and liquid in a heatproof bowl, cover it with foil, and leave it in the warming drawer overnight or for about 7 hours.
• For a larger batch, you can cook steel-cut oatmeal in an oven-proof casserole pan and store it in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. Reheat individual portions in your steam oven whenever you need a quick and nutritious breakfast.

How long to cook porridge in a steam oven

Cooking porridge in a steam oven is a simple process that yields excellent results. The cooking time will depend on the type of oats used and your desired consistency. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you cook porridge in a steam oven:

Steel-Cut Oats:

Steel-cut oats take longer to cook than rolled oats due to their denser and harder texture. In a steam oven, steel-cut oats can be cooked at 212°F/100°C for about one hour. This longer cooking time gives steel-cut oats a nutty flavour and a chewy texture.

Rolled Oats:

Rolled oats are quicker to cook than steel-cut oats. In a steam oven, rolled oats are typically cooked at 212°F/100°C for 15 minutes. This results in creamy and soft porridge.

Overnight Cooking:

For those who want to save time in the morning, porridge can be cooked overnight in a steam oven. Place the desired amount of oats and liquid in a heatproof bowl, cover with foil, and cook in the steam oven at a lower temperature, such as 80°C, for seven hours or overnight. This method is suitable for both steel-cut and rolled oats and produces a hearty dish with a delicate texture.

Customising Your Porridge:

The beauty of cooking porridge in a steam oven is that you can customise it to your preference. You can use milk, water, or a combination of both as the liquid. A pinch of salt enhances the flavour of the oats. For a sweeter porridge, you can add maple syrup, brown sugar, or honey.

Additionally, you can experiment with toppings such as fresh or roasted fruit, nuts, yoghurt, or spices. The versatility of porridge allows you to create a different flavour profile each time you cook it.

Tips for Success:

• Use heatproof bowls that can withstand the steam oven's temperature.
• Adjust the cooking time according to your desired consistency. For a looser porridge, reduce the cooking time, and for a thicker porridge, extend it.
• If you're short on time, cook a large batch of porridge and store it in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat individual portions in your steam oven whenever needed.
• If you want to toast the oats before cooking, melt a small amount of butter in an ovenproof pan, add the oats, and toast for a couple of minutes until your kitchen smells nutty.

Enjoy your steam oven-cooked porridge, and feel free to experiment with different ingredients and toppings to find your favourite combinations!

What to serve porridge with

Porridge is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of toppings and flavours to suit your taste. Here are some ideas on what to serve with porridge:

Fruits

Fruits are a great way to add sweetness and freshness to your porridge. You can use fresh, frozen, or dried fruits, or even make a fruit compote to mix into your porridge. Some popular fruit options include:

• Blueberries
• Strawberries
• Raspberries
• Bananas
• Mango
• Pineapple
• Apples
• Pears
• Pomegranate
• Peach
• Apricot
• Cranberries
• Figs
• Cherries
• Passion fruit
• Kiwi

Nuts and Seeds

Nuts and seeds add a crunchy texture and extra flavour to your porridge. They also provide a good source of protein and healthy fats. Some options include:

• Almonds
• Pistachios
• Walnuts
• Pecans
• Hazelnuts
• Peanuts
• Pumpkin seeds
• Sunflower seeds
• Chia seeds
• Flaxseeds
• Sesame seeds

Dairy

Dairy products can add creaminess and a indulgent touch to your porridge. Try:

• Milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Cream
• Butter
• Yoghurt (especially Greek yoghurt)
• Cream cheese
• Crème fraîche
• Tahini
• Almond butter
• Peanut butter

Sweeteners and Spices

A drizzle of something sweet or a pinch of spice can really elevate your porridge. Consider adding:

• Honey
• Maple syrup
• Cinnamon
• Nutmeg
• Brown sugar
• White chocolate
• Dark chocolate

Savoury Options

If you prefer a savoury breakfast, you can top your porridge with:

• Smoked bacon
• Sauteed mushrooms
• Courgettes
• Spring onions
• Chives
• Spinach
• Avocado
• Chilli
• Ginger
• Fish sauce
• Miso paste
• Curry powder
• Mustard seeds
• Fried curry leaves

How to store leftover porridge

Porridge is a delicious and nutritious breakfast option, but what should you do with leftovers? Here are some tips on how to store leftover porridge:

Storing Cooked Porridge

It is important to store cooked porridge properly to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage. Cooked porridge should be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Storing it in an airtight container will help to lock in freshness and flavour.

Refrigerating Porridge

The fridge is the easiest and most efficient option for storing porridge, especially if you plan to eat the leftovers within a few days. You can keep the porridge in a large container or separate it into individual portions. Make sure to refrigerate the porridge within 2 hours of cooking to prevent bacterial growth.

Freezing Porridge

If you don't plan on eating the leftover porridge right away, the freezer is a great option. It will extend the shelf life of the porridge and prevent spoilage. Store the porridge in an airtight container, and it will last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Porridge

When you're ready to enjoy your leftover porridge, simply leave it out at room temperature for a short time and add a splash of liquid. You can then reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it's hot. Stir the porridge occasionally to ensure even heating, and add more liquid if needed.

Storing Different Types of Porridge

It is worth noting that the storage instructions above are for traditional porridge made with rolled oats. If you are making steel-cut oat porridge, it may take longer to cook but can also be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days and reheated as needed.

Additionally, if you are making rice porridge or congee, it is not recommended to store it overnight, as it can cause wind buildup and stomach discomfort, according to a traditional Chinese healing perspective.

By following these simple storage instructions, you can enjoy delicious and nutritious porridge throughout the week without wasting any leftovers!

Frequently asked questions