Oatmeal with Apple & Carrots
🥣 Recipe Name: Oatmeal with Apple & Carrots
📖 Description:
A warm and comforting bowl of oatmeal infused with the natural sweetness of apples and carrots. This recipe combines the fiber-rich benefits of oats, the vitamins of carrots, and the antioxidant properties of apples for a wholesome start to your day. It’s like having carrot cake for breakfast—only healthier!
🍽️ Servings:
2 servings
(Easily doubled for meal prep!)
⏱️ Prep & Cook Time:
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
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Total Time: 20–25 minutes
📝 Ingredients For Oatmeal with Apple & Carrots
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1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
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2 cups water or milk (or a 50/50 mix)
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1 medium apple, grated (with skin)
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1 medium carrot, peeled & grated
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1/2 tsp cinnamon
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1/4 tsp nutmeg (optional)
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1 tbsp maple syrup or honey (optional)
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Pinch of salt
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1 tbsp chia seeds or flax seeds (optional for added nutrition)
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Toppings (optional): chopped nuts, raisins, yogurt, almond butter
👨🍳 Instructions:
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Prepare the ingredients: Grate the apple and carrot using a box grater or food processor.
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Cook the oats:
In a medium saucepan, bring the water/milk to a boil. Add the oats and reduce to a simmer. -
Add apple and carrot:
Stir in the grated apple and carrot, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. -
Simmer:
Cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until oats are tender and creamy. -
Sweeten and enrich:
Add maple syrup/honey and chia/flax seeds if using. Stir to combine. -
Serve hot:
Transfer to bowls and top with your favorite toppings like walnuts, raisins, or a dollop of yogurt.
💡 Notes & Tips:
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Use steel-cut oats if preferred; just increase the cooking time.
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Apples can be swapped with pears or bananas.
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For creamier oatmeal, use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk.
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Add a scoop of protein powder or Greek yogurt for extra protein.
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Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk or water.
🧠 Health Benefits:
| Ingredient | Benefits |
|---|---|
| Oats | Rich in fiber (beta-glucan), supports heart health and digestion. |
| Apple | High in antioxidants and fiber; supports immune and gut health. |
| Carrot | Packed with beta-carotene (vitamin A), good for vision and skin. |
| Chia Seeds | Omega-3s, fiber, and protein boost. |
| Cinnamon | Anti-inflammatory, may help with blood sugar control. |
🍽️ Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250–300 kcal |
| Protein | 6–8g |
| Carbohydrates | 45–50g |
| Fiber | 7–9g |
| Fat | 5–7g |
| Sugars (natural) | 10–14g |
| Vitamin A | 80% DV |
| Vitamin C | 10% DV |
| Iron | 10–12% DV |
(Values depend on milk, sweeteners, and toppings used.)
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
A: Yes! Use a plant-based milk (like almond, oat, or soy) and maple syrup instead of honey.
Q: Is this recipe baby- or toddler-friendly?
A: Yes, but omit added sweeteners and chop/grate apple and carrot finely. For babies under 1 year, avoid honey.
Q: Can I eat this cold like overnight oats?
A: Yes. Prepare it, cool, and store in jars. Great for grab-and-go breakfasts.
Q: Can I blend the carrots and apple into a puree?
A: Absolutely. That works well if you prefer a smoother texture or are feeding picky eaters.
Q: Is this good for weight loss?
A: It’s high in fiber and keeps you full longer, which supports weight management when paired with balanced portions.
