Imagine waking up to a bowl of creamy, aromatic oatmeal that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of the Dominican Republic. Avena Dominicana is not just a breakfast; it's a culinary journey that combines comfort, nutrition, and explosive flavor in one simple dish. Whether you're a breakfast enthusiast or someone looking to spice up your morning routine, this traditional Dominican oatmeal will revolutionize the way you start your day – promising warmth, satisfaction, and a taste of Caribbean sunshine in every spoonful!
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Dominican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 4 cups water or milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
- Banana or other fruit for topping
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 1 cup of rolled oats, 4 cups of water or milk, 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, a pinch of salt, and a banana or other fruit for topping.
- In a medium-sized pot, combine the 4 cups of water or milk with a pinch of salt. If you prefer a creamier texture, using milk is recommended.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the liquid reaches a boil, add the 1 cup of rolled oats to the pot. Stir well to ensure the oats are evenly distributed in the liquid.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the oats simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer you cook, the thicker the oatmeal will become. Adjust the cooking time to your preferred consistency.
- After the oats have cooked to your desired consistency, remove the pot from heat. Stir in the 1/2 cup of sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix thoroughly until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.
- Let the oatmeal sit for a minute to cool slightly and thicken further.
- While the oatmeal is resting, prepare your toppings. Slice a banana or any other fruit of your choice, such as strawberries, blueberries, or mango.
- To serve, ladle the oatmeal into bowls and top with the sliced fruit. You can also add a sprinkle of extra cinnamon or a drizzle of honey if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious and hearty Avena Dominicana oatmeal breakfast!
Tips
- Milk vs. Water: For an ultra-creamy texture, use whole milk or a combination of milk and water.
- Customize Your Sweetness: Adjust sugar to taste, or try alternative sweeteners like honey or condensed milk.
- Prevent Lumpy Oatmeal: Stir continuously while cooking and add oats gradually to ensure smooth consistency.
- Topping Variations: Experiment with different fruits like mangoes, passion fruit, or coconut flakes for a tropical twist.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the oatmeal in advance and reheat with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.
- Dietary Modifications: Use plant-based milk for a vegan version, or try steel-cut oats for a heartier texture.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of nutmeg or ground cloves for an extra layer of warmth and complexity.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 7g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 5mg
