Quick Cook vs Traditional Steel Cut Oats: Fiber vs Convenience

Fiber vs. convenience. This age-old question of oat eaters is for those trying to decide which oats to add to their diet. Whether you favor the hearty chewiness of steel cut oats or the speed of quick cook oats, this article will help you understand the differences and make an informed choice.

The Basics of Oats

It's crucial to know that all oats and oat products are not created equal and many are contaminated with glyphosate, a dangerous herbicide. The best way to avoid this contamination is to purchase certified organic oats.

Steel-cut oats, in their minimally processed state, are made by chopping the whole groat horizontally, leading to smaller pieces that still require a good cooking time. They are also known as Pinhead or Irish oats. On the other hand, rolled oats are made by steaming whole groats and then rolling them into flakes. This process is what sets them apart from quick cooking oats, which have been partially cooked in advance.

Steel Cut vs Quick Cook Oats

Steel cut oats, also referred to as traditional oats, are the unprocessed form of oats. They are chopped into small pieces, requiring between 20 to 30 minutes of simmering or boiling to achieve a desirable texture. Some prefer to soak steel cut oats to reduce phytate levels, a natural substance that can interfere with digestion. However, those with a preference for chewy, nutty texture might not want to opt for quick cook steel cut oats, as they are precooked and require less cooking time, often resulting in a mushier consistency.

Quick cook oats, while called oats, are essentially a pre-cooked option that requires minimal time to prepare. They cook in just a minute or two, making them a quick and convenient option for busy mornings. However, for those who cherish the long, slow simmering process and the nutty, chewy texture that steel cut oats provide, quick cook oats might not be the best choice.

Comparing Varieties of Rolled Oats

Rolling oats further differentiates into various types, each offering distinct textures and cooking times. Regular rolled oats are thicker and sturdier, taking 30 minutes to cook. Quick cooking rolled oats are steamed for longer and rolled thinner, cooking in just 2-3 minutes. One-minute oats, as the name suggests, can be cooked in about a minute, making them the quickest option. These are fully cooked and rolled very thin, so while they save time, they often result in a mushy texture and lack of flavor for some.

Old fashioned rolled oats, also known as thick flake oats, are a step down in cooking time from quick oats, taking 10 minutes to cook. They retain more flavor than one-minute oats and can be used to make great granola if that's what you're after.

Other Varieties

There are also Scottish oats, which are ground to an irregular consistency and make a creamy porridge, similar to steel cut oats. The least preferred option, at least in my opinion, is instant oats. These oats are fully cooked and dried before packaging, requiring only hot water for consumption. They are mushy, tasteless, and filled with sugars and flavors, which is why many individuals, including myself, find them distasteful.

Conclusion

The choice between quick cook and traditional steel cut oats ultimately depends on personal preference. Those who value convenience and quick preparation might lean towards quick cook oats, while those who prioritize flavor and texture would opt for steel cut oats. However, regardless of your choice, it's important to source certified organic oats to ensure they are free from harmful contaminants.