Oats With Amaranth, Chia Seeds and Blueberries Recipe (2024)

By Martha Rose Shulman

Oats With Amaranth, Chia Seeds and Blueberries Recipe (1)

Total Time
15 minutes, plus overnight soaking
Rating
4(173)
Notes
Read community notes

Fresh blueberries are not in season at the moment, so I put my frozen organic wild blueberries to good use in this hearty mix. The chia and the amaranth pump up the nutritional value of this cereal -- both are high in calcium, amaranth is high in protein, and chia seeds are a great source of healthful omega-3s. They also contribute texture. For even more great texture, top the cereal with chopped toasted hazelnuts or almonds.

Featured in: Ancient Grains for Breakfast

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Ingredients

Yield:Serves 1

    For Each Bowl

    • ¼cup regular or quick cooking steel-cut oats
    • 1tablespoon amaranth seeds
    • 1teaspoon chia seeds
    • Salt to taste (I use a generous pinch)
    • 1heaped tablespoon fresh or frozen blueberries, or more to taste
    • ¾cup water
    • 1teaspoon honey or maple syrup, plus more as desired for drizzling
    • Optional toppings: milk, chopped toasted skinned hazelnuts, chopped toasted almonds, grated apple or pear, freeze-dried blueberries

Ingredient Substitution Guide

Preparation

  1. The night before, stir together steel-cut oats, amaranth seeds, chia seeds, salt and blueberries in a medium microwave-proof bowl. Bring water to a boil and pour over mixture. Add honey or maple syrup and stir, then cover bowl with a plate.

  2. Step

    2

    In the morning, microwave mixture for 2 minutes on 100 percent power. Remove bowl from microwave and carefully remove plate (bowl will be hot and steam will rise from cereal). Stir mixture, cover again and return to microwave. Heat for 2 minutes more, or until mixture is no longer watery.

  3. Step

    3

    Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle on toppings of your choice.

Ratings

4

out of 5

173

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Private Notes

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Cooking Notes

Michele

Try adding your chia seeds after you have cooked the oatmeal. They add a crunchy texture to your food. Cooking makes them "gooey."

Victoria

Would appreciate non-microwave instructions/timing.

Scott

From what I've seen with this and similar recipes, Ms. Shulman has a bit of a sweet tooth. I made this recipe without the added sugar and it was delicious. The sweetness from the blueberries was perfect; adding sugar would have made it too sweet for me.I also added the chia seeds the morning after (before heating). They retained their texture that way.

Theresa

I make a batch of this for me to have for breakfast all week. It is so much better, and healthier, than instant oatmeal and encourages me to eat breakfast. Don't like the chia seeds though, I leave those out. Adds an icky texture.

Scott

I haven't made this particular recipe but with similar ones I heat on the stove until hot and thick--a matter of minutes depending on the stove.The microwave step is really just reheating and a bit of finishing--the cereal is already "cooked" (between the hot water and letting it sit over night). So it's not a issue of time, just until it looks ready to eat. Since it's pretty thick by now make sure you stir, scraping the bottom well or it'll stick and burn.

smw

add chia seeds after cooking but before reheatingeliminate honey

CH

For clarification - are you supposed to leave the oats on the countertop all night or refrigerate them?

B & B Lady

Made this substituting flax seed for amaranth. Also used old fashioned oats. Was good, served with chopped walnuts & a little extra maple syrup.

Britt

Cooked on the stove top as recommended by the quick cooking steel cut oats package (6 minutes). Added amaranth and chia at the same time as I find steel cut oats have enough texture. We skipped the blueberries out of necessity and missed them. Well received by toddler and adults!

jan

I don’t need to double.

jan

Don’t need to double

Karin

The granola came to a boil in the microwave, spilled over and created a big mess. There is really no benefit, with time or cleanup, preparing it in the microwave to cooking it on the stovetop. And it is much too sweet.

smw

add chia seeds after cooking but before reheatingeliminate honey

Scott

From what I've seen with this and similar recipes, Ms. Shulman has a bit of a sweet tooth. I made this recipe without the added sugar and it was delicious. The sweetness from the blueberries was perfect; adding sugar would have made it too sweet for me.I also added the chia seeds the morning after (before heating). They retained their texture that way.

Victoria

Would appreciate non-microwave instructions/timing.

Bali

I don't have a microwave.
For how long should I simmer this?

Scott

I haven't made this particular recipe but with similar ones I heat on the stove until hot and thick--a matter of minutes depending on the stove.The microwave step is really just reheating and a bit of finishing--the cereal is already "cooked" (between the hot water and letting it sit over night). So it's not a issue of time, just until it looks ready to eat. Since it's pretty thick by now make sure you stir, scraping the bottom well or it'll stick and burn.

Alex

Tasted great but . . .
I doubled it to serve 2. When I microwaved it the first time it was ok; the second time ok but needed another 2 minutes. Well that just made the whole thing foam up in the microwave and it seemed as if the amaranth came up with the foam.
As suggested I put in the chia after heating (and cleaning up!) and that and the toasted almonds really took this over the top.
Man do I feel healthy! ! ! ! !

Theresa

I make a batch of this for me to have for breakfast all week. It is so much better, and healthier, than instant oatmeal and encourages me to eat breakfast. Don't like the chia seeds though, I leave those out. Adds an icky texture.

Michele

Try adding your chia seeds after you have cooked the oatmeal. They add a crunchy texture to your food. Cooking makes them "gooey."

Private notes are only visible to you.

Oats With Amaranth, Chia Seeds and Blueberries Recipe (2024)

FAQs

How much chia seeds should I put in my oatmeal? ›

I use ½ cup oats, 1 tablespoon chia seeds and 1 cup of water then I microwave it for 90 seconds. What I love about oatmeal is that it's really quick and easy to make, you can customize it with any toppings, and it keeps you full with lots of energy to last your morning!

Do I need to soak amaranth before cooking? ›

Soaking: If you have the time, consider soaking the amaranth overnight before cooking. "Soaking the grains makes their nutrients easier to digest and shortens the cooking time," says Ziata. Simply combine amaranth and water in a large bowl, completely submerging the grains.

Why does everyone put chia seeds in overnight oats? ›

Why Do You Put Chia Seeds in Overnight Oats? Chia seeds up the nutrition content in overnight oats. They're loaded with good-for-your-gut fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which help calm inflammation in your body and may protect you from chronic disease. They also add a nice protein boost to this recipe.

What are the benefits of eating oatmeal and chia? ›

Oatmeal is rich in soluble fiber, which helps to reduce LDL cholesterol levels (the “bad” cholesterol) and improve overall lipid profile. Chia seeds are packed with heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease the risk of heart disease.

Is 2 tablespoons of chia seeds a day too much? ›

These tiny seeds can provide fiber that helps lower cholesterol, boost your heart health and reduce your risk of developing chronic disease. That said, because chia seeds are packed with fiber and are calorie dense, stick with no more than 2 tablespoons per day.

Is 1 teaspoon of chia seeds enough per day? ›

The recommended daily intake of chia seeds for adults is about 1 to 2 tablespoons (15-30 grams) per day. Chia seeds are a rich source of fiber, protein, healthy fats, and various micronutrients, but they are also high in calories. Therefore, it is important to consume them in moderation and as part of a balanced diet.

Is amaranth better than oatmeal? ›

Amaranth is an ancient grain with a slightly sweet, nutty taste that works well in place of oatmeal. In addition to being gluten-free, amaranth is a good source of several key nutrients, including protein, fiber, iron, and manganese ( 1 ).

Does amaranth need to be washed? ›

Step 1: Rinse: Place amaranth in a strainer and rinse well in warm filtered water. Step 2: Soak: When possible soak amaranth overnight to improve digestion and increase the absorption of nutrients.

Can you overcook amaranth? ›

As a breakfast cereal.

Place amaranth and water or apple juice in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, until water is absorbed, about 20 minutes. Keep a close eye on it towards the end and then serve it right away, as it will turn gummy and congeal if overcooked or left to sit.

What not to add in overnight oats? ›

As Best points out, "some of the worst ingredients that are mistakenly added to healthy overnight oat recipes include chocolate sauce, sugar, syrup, and dried fruit."

What happens when you eat overnight oats every morning? ›

The Bottom Line

Making oatmeal a regular part of your menu can potentially lower your disease risk, help your gut health thrive, make bowel movements easier and keep you feeling fuller for longer. If you're ready to start your morning with a bowl of oats, try our Cinnamon-Roll Overnight Oats.

Which is healthier, chia pudding or overnight oats? ›

Not only are overnight oats the heavier option in terms of texture, they are also richer in nutrients. Although chia seeds provide healthy protein, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids, whole-grain oats are a heartier source of vitamins, minerals, and heart-healthy antioxidants, and are generally considered more filling.

What happens if you eat a spoonful of chia seeds everyday? ›

Because of their high fiber content, eating too many chia seeds may cause constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and gas. Chia seeds may also cause flare-ups with inflammatory bowel conditions such as Crohn's disease. Choking hazard. Dry chia seeds absorb water, which causes them to swell up and become gelatinous.

What happens to your body when you eat oatmeal everyday? ›

Studies show that oats and oatmeal have many health benefits. These include weight loss, lower blood sugar levels, and a reduced risk of heart disease. Oats are among the healthiest grains on earth. They're a gluten-free whole grain and a great source of important vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.

What happens to your gut when you eat chia seeds? ›

Chia seeds are a good source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation and support healthy digestion. The omega-3 fatty acids and caffeic acid in chia seeds may reduce inflammation in the gut. This can alleviate symptoms of IBS, such as abdominal pain, bloating, and diarrhea.

What is the proper intake of chia seeds? ›

Chia seeds as part of a healthy diet

There is no RDA for chia seeds. Still, they can be safely eaten in amounts of 50 grams daily, which is about five tablespoons. Two tablespoons provide all of the nutritional benefits listed above. Soaked chia seeds have a gel-like texture.

How much chia seeds per day for beginners? ›

Chia seeds serving size

If you can begin adding chia seeds to your diet, it's best to adhere to the recommended serving size. The serving size for adults is 15grams (2 tablespoons) daily. For children and teens ages 5 to 18 years the recommended amount is 1.4 to 4.3 grams daily.

How much chia seeds should I put on my cereal? ›

Add to smoothies, sprinkle over breakfast cereals – just a teaspoonful or two is enough.

What is the best way to eat chia seeds for maximum benefit? ›

Because they quickly swell after absorbing liquid, it is advised to eat chia seeds that have already been soaked in liquid or are served with a moist food, such as oatmeal or yogurt. Do not eat dry chia seeds by themselves.

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