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Savory Oatmeal with Mushrooms, Spinach and Thyme: A Wholesome British Delight

Oatmeal is often associated with sweet toppings like fruit and honey, but there’s a delightful world of savoury variations waiting to be discovered. One such enticing dish is Savory Oatmeal with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Thyme. This hearty recipe blends the wholesome goodness of oats with a medley of nutritious ingredients, making it ideal for a nourishing breakfast, a comforting lunch, or a light dinner.

The Appeal of Savory Oatmeal

In recent years, there has been a growing trend towards savoury breakfasts. The combination of flavours and textures in savoury oatmeal makes it not only delicious but also satisfying. Savory oatmeal is rich in fibre, plant-based protein, and essential nutrients, making it an excellent option for health-conscious eaters. When paired with earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and aromatic thyme, this dish becomes an irresistible choice.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To prepare Savory Oatmeal with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Thyme, you’ll need the following:

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 200g mushrooms (such as chestnut or shiitake), sliced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, washed and roughly chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)
• A splash of soy sauce or tamari, for seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil or butter, for frying
• Optional: a poached egg or grated cheese for serving

Method

1. Prepare the Base: Begin by cooking the oats. In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats and water or vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are creamy and cooked through.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: While the oats are cooking, heat a splash of olive oil or a knob of butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent. Then, add the garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking until the mushrooms have released their moisture and are nicely browned.

3. Add the Spinach: Stir in the chopped spinach and thyme, allowing the spinach to wilt. This should take just a couple of minutes. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper, tasting and adjusting as needed.

4. Combine and Serve: Once the oats are ready, fold them gently into the sautéed vegetables. If the mixture is too thick, you can thin it with a bit more broth or water. Serve hot, and for an extra touch of indulgence, top with a perfectly poached egg or a sprinkle of grated cheese.

Why You’ll Love It

This Savory Oatmeal with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Thyme is not just a feast for the senses but also a canvas for personalisation. Feel free to experiment by adding other vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes or bell peppers, or incorporating your favourite herbs and spices. The interplay of the earthy mushrooms, vibrant spinach, and fragrant thyme creates a comforting and flavourful dish that will make you rethink your breakfast choices.

Not only is this dish brimming with health benefits, but it also showcases the versatility of oats. They are not only wholesome and filling but also incredibly adaptable, lending themselves well to a variety of flavours.

Conclusion

Savory Oatmeal with Mushrooms, Spinach, and Thyme is a delightful dish that embodies comfort and nutrition in every bite. Perfect for any time of day, it provides a hearty option for those looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into their diet. So the next time you find yourself reaching for sweet toppings, consider taking a savoury route with this British-inspired oatmeal recipe that is sure to please both your palate and your well-being. Enjoy!

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