Welcome to a comforting bowl of oat soup-an unexpected but delightful dish that blends the warmth and wholesomeness of oats with the savory depth of a soup. You might be thinking, “Oats in soup”? Well, trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked. This dish is perfect for chilly days, those moments when you crave something both nourishing and filling. It’s easy to prepare, and it’s so versatile that you can adjust the flavors to suit whatever you’ve got in your pantry.
Oat soup isn’t just about the oats themselves; it’s about creating a cozy, creamy, and savory soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re a fan of experimenting in the kitchen or someone who loves simple, no-fuss meals, oat soup will become a go-to option.
Oat Soup Recipe
This oat soup recipe strikes a beautiful balance between heartiness and flavor. It’s the kind of dish you can enjoy as a light lunch, a starter before a bigger meal, or even as a full-on dinner, depending on your cravings.
The beauty of this recipe is that it’s highly customizable. You can choose to keep it plant-based, add some protein like chicken or tofu, or throw in some greens to boost the nutrients. The oats, when cooked properly, offer a subtle creamy texture, which makes the soup incredibly smooth and velvety. So, let’s dive into the magic of oat soup.
Ingredients Needed
For the base of the soup, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Oats (1 cup): The star of the show! Steel-cut or rolled oats work best. They give the soup that satisfying, creamy texture that you’ll love.
- Vegetable or chicken broth (4 cups): This adds the savory depth to the soup and provides a great base for all the flavors to meld together.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): For sautéing the vegetables and adding a rich, smooth texture to the soup.
- Onion (1 medium): A finely chopped onion adds a savory sweetness to the broth and helps build the flavor base.
- Carrot (1 medium): A chopped carrot brings in a slight sweetness, balancing out the savory flavors of the broth and oats.
- Celery (2 stalks): Adds freshness and a subtle herbal flavor to the soup.
- Garlic (3 cloves): For an aromatic kick that complements the other veggies and oats perfectly.
- Bay leaves (2): Adds an earthy, aromatic element that rounds out the flavors in the soup.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Simple seasonings that elevate the flavor.
- Fresh herbs (optional, such as thyme or parsley): These can be added for a burst of freshness and added flavor.
- Lemon juice (optional): A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can add a nice brightness to balance out the richness.
Cooking Instructions
This recipe is incredibly simple to prepare, and it comes together in less than 40 minutes, making it a great choice for busy evenings or lazy weekends. Follow these easy steps to create your own bowl of oat soup:
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Prepare The Ingredients
- Chop the onion, carrot, and celery into small, bite-sized pieces.
- Mince the garlic and set aside.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, making sure not to burn the garlic.
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Add The Broth & Bay Leaves
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and add the bay leaves.
- Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-high heat, then lower the heat to medium and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to combine.
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Stir In The Oats
- Add the oats to the pot and stir. You want to make sure the oats are well-distributed in the broth.
- Continue to simmer the soup for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. The oats will begin to break down and thicken the broth, creating a rich and creamy texture.
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Final Touches
- Once the oats are soft and the soup has thickened, taste and season with salt and pepper.
- Remove the bay leaves and discard them.
- For added brightness, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice into the soup just before serving.
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Serve & Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve hot.
Ingredient Insights
The ingredients in this oat soup aren’t just there for flavor-they each play a vital role in creating the perfect balance of texture, taste, and nutrition:
- Oats: They’re more than just a breakfast staple. Oats are a whole grain that provides fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals. When cooked in a soup, they absorb the broth and turn creamy, making them an ideal base for this dish.
- Broth: Whether you opt for vegetable or chicken broth, the liquid acts as the canvas for the soup’s flavors. The richness of the broth infuses the oats and vegetables with savory goodness, helping the soup achieve a heartier flavor.
- Vegetables (onion, carrot, celery): These are the flavor foundation of the soup. The sweetness of the onion and carrot balances the earthiness of the oats, while the celery brings in a subtle herbal note. Together, they create a complex, satisfying base.
- Garlic: A tiny ingredient that has a huge impact. Garlic adds a punch of flavor and aromatic complexity, making the soup more savory and rich.
- Bay Leaves: While bay leaves seem subtle, they’re essential for adding depth to the broth. Their earthy flavor infuses the soup over time, giving it a rounded finish.
Expert Tips
- For Creamier Soup: If you like your soup extra creamy, you can blend part of it after cooking. Just use an immersion blender or transfer a few scoops to a regular blender, blend until smooth, and return it to the pot. This creates a luxurious texture without having to use cream.
- Add Protein: If you want a more filling soup, add some cooked chicken, sausage, or tofu for extra protein. You could also stir in a can of white beans or lentils for a plant-based option.
- Seasoning Variations: If you’re in the mood for different flavors, you can add cumin, smoked paprika, or curry powder for a spiced version of oat soup. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary while cooking will infuse the soup with extra fragrance.
- Top It Off: Try adding a sprinkle of grated cheese (Parmesan or cheddar) on top, or serve with a side of toasted sourdough bread for a hearty meal.
Recipe Variations
- Vegan Oat Soup: Stick with vegetable broth and add plant-based protein like chickpeas, tofu, or tempeh. You can also make it creamier by adding a splash of coconut milk.
- Spicy Oat Soup: Kick it up with a bit of chili powder or fresh chili peppers. Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt at the end to cool it down.
- Mushroom Oat Soup: If you’re a mushroom lover, sauté some mushrooms along with the onions and carrots for a deeper, umami flavor. Mushrooms are a perfect complement to the oats’ creamy texture.
- Sweet Oat Soup: For a twist, try making a sweeter oat soup by swapping out savory ingredients for apples, cinnamon, and a touch of honey. This could make for a lovely breakfast or dessert option.
Final Words
Oat soup is an incredible dish that defies expectations and brings comfort and warmth to the table. It’s a recipe that can easily be adapted to fit different dietary preferences and flavor profiles, making it a great option for anyone to try. The key is in the balance of ingredients and allowing the oats to absorb the broth, creating a rich and hearty dish.
FAQs
What Are The Basic Ingredients For An Oat Soup Recipe?
The basic ingredients for oat soup typically include oats, vegetable or chicken broth, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and herbs. You can also add other vegetables and proteins like beans, peas, or chicken for added flavor and nutrition.
Can I Use Steel-cut Oats In Oat Soup?
Yes, you can use steel-cut oats in oat soup. However, they will require a longer cooking time compared to rolled oats. You might need to simmer the soup for 30-40 minutes to ensure they soften properly.
Can I Make Oat Soup Vegetarian Or Vegan?
Absolutely! To make oat soup vegetarian or vegan, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any animal-based proteins like chicken or bacon. You can also add plant-based protein sources like beans or tofu.
How Can I Make Oat Soup Creamy?
To make oat soup creamy, you can blend part of the soup after cooking to create a smooth texture. Alternatively, you can stir in a bit of cream, coconut milk, or a dairy-free milk like almond or oat milk for extra creaminess.
What Spices Or Herbs Should I Use In Oat Soup?
Common spices and herbs for oat soup include garlic, thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, turmeric, and cumin. You can also add a dash of chili flakes or paprika for a little heat, depending on your taste preferences.
Can I Use Instant Oats For Oat Soup?
It’s not ideal to use instant oats in soup as they cook much faster and may break down too quickly, making the soup too mushy. Rolled oats or steel-cut oats are better choices as they retain their texture during cooking.
How Long Should I Cook Oat Soup?
Cooking time for oat soup depends on the type of oats you’re using. Rolled oats generally need about 20-30 minutes to cook in the soup, while steel-cut oats may require 30-40 minutes. Always check the oats for tenderness before serving.
Can I Freeze Oat Soup?
Yes, oat soup can be frozen. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add extra broth or water to adjust the consistency.
What Are Some Variations Of Oat Soup?
Some variations of oat soup include adding different vegetables like spinach, kale, or sweet potatoes. You can also experiment with different broths such as mushroom, tomato, or miso. For protein, try adding lentils, beans, or sausage.
Can Oat Soup Be Served Cold?
While oat soup is typically served hot, you can also serve it chilled, especially during warmer months. To make it more refreshing, you can incorporate fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice when serving cold.