Indian-Style Overnight Oats Recipe

Introduction

Experience a fragrant twist on a classic breakfast with these Indian-Style Overnight Oats. Infused with cardamom, saffron, and rose water, this creamy, satisfying dish is perfect for a nourishing start to your day.

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1.5 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• A pinch of saffron threads
• 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios (plus more for topping)
• 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional but magical)

Instructions

1. Step 1: In a small bowl, warm 1 tablespoon of the milk just enough to infuse (do not boil), then add the saffron threads. Let this mixture sit while you prepare the rest.
2. Step 2: In a jar or mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, ground cardamom, rose water, and the remaining milk. Mix well until the mixture forms a thick, loose batter.
3. Step 3: Stir the saffron-infused milk and chopped pistachios into the oat mixture. Mix again to incorporate evenly.
4. Step 4: Divide the mixture into two glass jars or containers. Cover and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 to 6 hours.
5. Step 5: In the morning, stir the oats once. Top with additional chopped pistachios and a few saffron strands. Serve cold and enjoy.

Tips & Variations

• For a nut-free option, replace pistachios with toasted coconut flakes or seeds like pumpkin or sunflower.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less maple syrup or honey to suit your taste.
• Use flavored yogurt like vanilla or mango to add extra depth to the dish.
• If you don’t have rose water, a splash of orange blossom water or vanilla extract works as a nice substitute.

Storage

Store the overnight oats covered in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving if stored longer. Enjoy chilled or let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating if preferred.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of milk?

Yes, you can use any milk you prefer, including dairy, almond, oat, soy, or coconut milk. Choose what suits your dietary needs and flavor preferences.

Is it necessary to soak the oats overnight?

Soaking the oats overnight softens them and allows the flavors to meld, creating a creamy texture that’s easy to digest and delicious. While you can eat them sooner, overnight soaking is recommended for the best results.

Indian-Style Overnight Oats Recipe

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★★★★★

4.5 from 59 reviews

This Indian-Style Overnight Oats recipe offers a rich fusion of traditional Indian flavors like cardamom, saffron, and rose water combined with wholesome oats and chia seeds. It’s a creamy, nutritious breakfast that’s easy to prepare, requiring no cooking, and perfect for a refreshing start to your day.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 4 to 6 hours (including refrigeration)
• Yield: 2 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: No-Cook
• Cuisine: Indian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Overnight Oats Base

• 1/2 cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1/4 cup plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
• 1 tablespoon chia seeds
• 1.5 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
• 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional but magical)

Saffron Infusion and Garnish

• A pinch of saffron threads
• 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios (plus more for topping)

Instructions

1. Warm the Milk with Saffron: In a small bowl, gently warm 1 tablespoon of milk until it is warm but not boiling, then add the saffron threads to infuse. Set this aside while preparing the rest of the oats mixture.
2. Combine Oats Mixture: In a jar or mixing bowl, mix together the rolled oats, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, ground cardamom, rose water if using, and the remaining milk. Stir thoroughly until you achieve a thick, yet loose batter consistency.
3. Add Saffron Milk and Pistachios: Stir the saffron-infused warm milk and chopped pistachios into the oats mixture. Mix well to distribute the saffron color and flavor evenly throughout.
4. Refrigerate Overnight: Divide the mixture evenly between two glass jars or containers. Cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 to 6 hours to allow the oats and chia seeds to soak and soften.
5. Serve: In the morning, give each jar a good stir. Top with extra chopped pistachios and a few strands of saffron for garnish. Serve cold and enjoy your flavorful, healthy breakfast.

Notes

• You can substitute maple syrup with honey or another sweetener of your choice.
• Use plant-based milk like almond, oat, or coconut milk for a dairy-free or vegan option.
• Adjust the sweetness and spices according to your preference.
• Rose water is optional but adds a distinctive floral aroma characteristic of Indian desserts.
• Overnight oats can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days for convenience.
• Chopped pistachios add a crunchy texture, but you can also try almonds or cashews.

Keywords: overnight oats, Indian breakfast, cardamom oats, saffron oats, healthy breakfast, chia seeds, pistachios, rose water, no-cook breakfast