Confused by “Steel-cut oatmeal”? We’re not surprised if you are considering they don’t have anything to do with cutting your oatmeal with steel spoons!
Actually, Steel-cut oats (also called pinhead oats, coarse-cut oats and Irish oats) are grown in fertile plains of Ireland and refer to whole grain groats. They are gold in color and resemble small pieces of rice or chopped nuts. The inner portions of the oat kernel are cut into two or three pieces by steel rather than being rolled as are traditional oats. Because of their minimal processing, Steel-cut oats take longer to prepare than instant or rolled oats. We typically simmer them for 15–40 minutes. The flavor of Steel-cut oats is nutty and they have a chewy consistency due to the cutting process.
Benefits of Steel-cut oatmeal:
- made up of essential grains that are inherently full of nutritional value. According to the USDA, whole grai
- reduces high blood pressure and cholesterol
- helps prevent cancer, heart disease and diabetes
- helps flush fat and cholesterol out of your system
- provides powerful antioxidants that help you look younger, stay healthier and live longer
- high in B-vitamins
- high in calcium
- high fiber (One cup of steel-cut oatmeal contains 8 g of insoluble fiber!)
- high protein
- low sodium
- low unsaturated fat
- not processed, so likely retain more vitamins and minerals
- takes longer to digest so you stay fuller longer because the inner part of the oat kernel has not been flattened but instead has been cut into more than two pieces
For all these reasons, we believe Steel-cut oatmeal is the best option if you have to choose between this type of oatmeal, traditional rolled oats or quick oats. With their nutty, crunchy taste, heartier, more satisfying texture, Steel-cut oatmeal is a great option for those seeking a healthful breakfast.