Savory Vegan Oatmeal with Bok Choy – A Wholesome Breakfast Alternative

When you think of oatmeal, you might picture sweet combinations like raisins and blueberries or apples and cinnamon. While these classic recipes are fantastic, have you ever tried savory oatmeal? This unique twist incorporates vegetables, savory spices, and greens for a hearty and nutritious meal.

One of my favorite ways to make savory oatmeal is with bok choy, garlic, ginger, and a touch of miso and tamari for a satisfying, umami-packed flavor profile. Not only is this a great way to add variety to your breakfast, but it also provides an opportunity to sneak in extra greens and fiber first thing in the morning.

Why Make Savory Oatmeal?

Switching up your oatmeal with savory ingredients can be a delicious way to explore new flavors. Unlike sweet oatmeal, a savory version allows you to add in vegetables, which are packed with nutrients, fiber, and flavor. Plus, combining oatmeal with ingredients like tamari, miso, and ginger gives you a satisfying, filling, and protein-rich start to your day – perfect for those following a plant-based diet.

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Ingredients

To make this hearty, plant-based breakfast, you’ll need:

• 1 cup oats: old-fashioned or steel-cut

• 2 cups water

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp grated ginger root

• 2 cups greens like spinach, kale, or bok choy, cut into 1-inch pieces

• 1-2 cups additional vegetables of choice (optional – consider sweet potatoes, bell peppers, or onions)

• 1 tbsp aminos or tamari

• 1 tbsp miso paste

Directions

1. Cook the Oats: In a saucepan, combine oats and water. Cook according to the type of oats used – about 1-2 minutes for old-fashioned oats and 20 minutes for steel-cut oats.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a separate sauté pan, combine the greens, garlic, ginger, and any additional vegetables with tamari over medium heat. Sauté for about 3 minutes or until the vegetables are tender, adding a bit of water if needed to prevent sticking.

3. Combine and Add Miso: Add the cooked oatmeal to the vegetable mixture and stir to combine. Remove from heat, then stir in the miso paste until fully incorporated.

4. Serve and Enjoy! Dish out your savory oatmeal into a bowl, and add any additional toppings like chopped green onions, sesame seeds, or even a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra flavor.

Customizing Your Savory Oatmeal

This savory oatmeal recipe is highly customizable, allowing you to switch up the vegetables and spices according to your preferences. Here are some ideas:

• Try different greens: Use baby spinach, kale, or Swiss chard for a nutritional boost.

• Add a touch of heat: Sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with sriracha for a spicy kick.

• Experiment with toppings: Top your oatmeal with sesame seeds, green onions, or even some avocado slices to add extra flavor and texture.

Savory oatmeal with bok choy is a fantastic plant-based option for breakfast. Packed with protein, fiber, and a variety of nutrients, this dish is not only satisfying but also incredibly nourishing. An excellent option for those looking for a nutritious, filling, and flavorful way to start the day!