Warm Chai Spice Oatmeal (Printable)
A comforting breakfast featuring oatmeal blended with chai spices, topped with nuts and dried fruits.
# Ingredient List:
→ Oatmeal Base
01 - 1 cup rolled oats
02 - 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
03 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Chai Spice Blend
04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
05 - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
06 - 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
07 - 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
08 - 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
09 - 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper
→ Sweetener & Toppings
10 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
11 - 2 tablespoons chopped nuts (almonds or walnuts)
12 - 2 tablespoons raisins or dried cranberries
13 - Optional: sliced banana or fresh fruit for serving
# How to Make:
01 - Combine milk and salt in a medium saucepan and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
02 - Stir in rolled oats and all chai spices, reduce heat to low, and cook, stirring occasionally, until creamy and thickened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
03 - Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup or honey until fully incorporated.
04 - Divide oatmeal into bowls, and top with chopped nuts, dried fruit, and optional fresh fruit. Serve warm.
# Expert Tips:
01 -
- It transforms a humble bowl of oats into something that feels indulgent without any fuss
- The chai spices add that cozy, aromatic quality that makes you feel like you're treating yourself
- Ready in just 15 minutes, yet tastes like you spent the morning in the kitchen
02 -
- Cardamom and cloves are strong, so start with the amounts given and taste as you go. You can always add more spice next time, but you can't take it back.
- The oatmeal will thicken as it sits, so if you make it ahead or it cools, just add a splash more milk to get it back to the right consistency.
- Toasting the spices in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding them makes everything taste even more vibrant, though it's not necessary.
03 -
- The difference between good and truly great chai oatmeal is using freshly ground spices. Buy them whole if you can and grind them yourself, the aroma alone is worth it.
- Don't skip the salt, it's the secret that makes all those spices shine and prevents the sweetness from becoming cloying.
- Warm your serving bowls under hot water before pouring in the oatmeal. This keeps everything hot longer and makes the whole experience feel more special.