Vegetable masala oats are a quick savoury breakfast made with oats, mixed vegetables and everyday Indian spices. This one-pan recipe is easy to customise, filling, and useful for busy mornings when you want something warm in about 15 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled or quick-cooking oats
- 1 teaspoon oil
- ½ teaspoon cumin seeds
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 1 small tomato, chopped
- ½ cup mixed vegetables, finely diced
- ¼ teaspoon turmeric
- ½ teaspoon cumin or coriander powder
- ¼ teaspoon chilli powder, optional
- 2–2½ cups water, depending on the oats
- Salt to taste and chopped coriander
- Lemon juice, to serve
How to Make Vegetable Masala Oats
1. Toast the oats
Dry-toast the oats in a pan for 2–3 minutes until lightly fragrant. Transfer to a bowl. You can skip this step if you are short on time.
2. Cook the vegetables
Heat oil in the pan and add cumin seeds. When they sizzle, add onion and cook until softened. Add tomato and vegetables, then stir in turmeric, cumin or coriander powder and optional chilli powder.
3. Simmer the oats
Add water and bring to a gentle boil. Stir in the oats and cook, stirring often, until creamy and the vegetables are tender. Add a splash of water if the mixture becomes too thick.
4. Finish and serve
Season to taste and finish with coriander and a little lemon juice. Serve hot. Add peas, beans or spinach depending on what you have available.
Tips for Better Masala Oats
- Dice vegetables small so they cook quickly.
- Add water gradually because different oats absorb different amounts.
- For extra protein, serve with plain yoghurt or a boiled egg.
- Use less chilli for a mild family-friendly breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use instant oats?
Yes. Instant oats cook quickly, so start with less water and reduce the simmering time, adding more liquid only if needed.
Can I make masala oats without onion?
Yes. Skip the onion and use tomato, vegetables, cumin and coriander for flavour.
Are masala oats good for meal prep?
They are best freshly cooked because oats thicken as they stand. If saving leftovers, refrigerate promptly and reheat with a little water until steaming hot.