How to: Cook Instant Oat Lunch

Everyone had been raving about how good and healthy oatmeal is that I decided it was high time for me to give it a shot too. Also, it did help that a medium bag of them cost about one decent lunch. And that one bag can last you long. So long that if you don't finish them up in time, the rice weevil would be more than happy to do so for you as I sadly found out.

Or not depending on how much you like oats to begin with.
Personally, it's not that bad despite the fact that I only cook it in one manner. This manner. Which is probably quite the worst way to introduce oats to anyone as it doesn't taste of much. Except milk. Because that's all there really is to it.

It's quite easy for lazy people as it doesn't involve much prep work.

1. Grab a cup or jar or bowl and fill it with the instant oat. Cooked or dried oat won't work as those require actual cooking.
2. I added in basil seed in vain hopes of making it more palatable but those buggers don't taste of anything. If anything, they make it slimy. So be wary. Of course, optimally chia seed would be great.
3. Add in milk.

So depending on your preference, this is where it differs.

• Hot: nuke it in the microwave for few minutes. Occasionally stir it to allow a more even cooking
• Cold: place it in the fridge for few hours.

I started off with hot as it was simple enough and who doesn't like hot lunches even if it means a cup of badly prepared oat and milk? After reading much about overnight oats, I decided to do the express version by placing it in the fridge when I get into work circa 830am so that it'll be done by lunch time circa 12pm. Both versions are good in their own ways and it's really a personal preference. Either way, be warned that as it's only milk, the taste does get slightly off-putting after awhile so I'd advise against making them in bulk. Raisins (or any fruits) would probably make it better but that'll defeat eating oats in the first place as most dried fruits is high in sugar.

You could also add in cinnamon powder or honey. There are also savory oats around but those are more cumbersome to make in the confines of an office pantry.