Delicious Irish Oatmeal: Pear and Maple Recipe
Do you want to start your day with a delicious and tasty breakfast that will keep you energized for hours? I have the perfect recipe for you, an Irish Oatmeal with Pears and Maple syrup that is guaranteed to satisfy your cravings and warm up your soul.
This dish is not only incredibly comforting and flavorful but also highly nutritious, perfect for those who want to start their day with a healthy meal. The combination of steel cut Irish oatmeal, ripe pears, and pure maple syrup creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
As a chef specializing in British cuisine, I am passionate about creating dishes that showcase the rich traditions and flavors of the British Isles. This recipe is a perfect example of my love for hearty meals that are both delicious and wholesome.
Not only is this Irish oatmeal dish easy to make, but it uses simple ingredients such as water, sugar, butter, salt, steel-cut oats, pears, maple syrup, pecans or currants. It’s affordable too which means it’s accessible for families on budget. So why not treat yourself in the morning to a super breakfast and give this recipe a go!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you tired of the same boring oatmeal every morning? Look no further than this Irish oatmeal with pears and maple recipe. This recipe offers a unique twist on traditional oatmeal that will leave your taste buds begging for more.
One of the standout ingredients is the steel cut oats, which provide a hearty texture and nutty flavor that traditional rolled oats lack. Not only are they delicious, but they also offer numerous health benefits such as being high in fiber and protein while also being low in calories.
But what really sets this dish apart are the sweet and juicy pears, which pair perfectly with the earthy steel cut oats. Infused with delicious maple syrup, cinnamon, and pecans, every bite is an explosion of flavor that will have you wishing breakfast could last all day.
This recipe not only tastes amazing but it’s also easy to adjust to your liking. Whether you prefer your oatmeal on the sweeter or less-sweet side, this recipe can be easily adapted to fit your preferences.
With its warm flavors and comforting texture, this Irish oatmeal with pears and maple recipe is a perfect way to start your day off right. So next time you’re looking for a nutritious yet scrumptious breakfast option, give this recipe a try – I promise you won’t regret it!
Ingredient List
Here’s what you’ll need to make this Irish Oatmeal with Pears and Maple Recipe:
- 1 1/2 cups of steel-cut oats
- 4 cups of water
- 1/4 tsp of salt
- 2 tbsp of butter
- 2 firm pears, cored and diced
- 1/2 cup of currants or raisins
- 1/2 cup of pecans, toasted and chopped
- 2 teaspoons of cinnamon
- Maple syrup or brown sugar, for serving
Bear in mind that the kind of oatmeal you use will impact the cooking time and the final texture. Steel-cut oats are also known as Irish oatmeal and made by cutting whole oat groats into pieces using steel blades. The result is a chewy and nutty porridge that will keep you going for hours. Rolled oats won’t work here since they’re too soft and fast to cook.
You’ll also need two ripe but firm pears – choose a variety that will hold its shape when cooked like Bosc or Anjou. They add natural sweetness, fiber, and texture to the dish. For added crunch, I recommend toasting the pecans in a dry pan or oven until fragrant. Finally, cinnamon adds warmth and depth to the recipe, while maple syrup makes everything better.
The Recipe How-To
Step 1: Boil the Water
To begin, bring 4 cups of water and a pinch of salt to a boil in a medium-sized pot. Once the water is boiling, gradually stir in 1 cup of Irish oats. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Step 2: Add Maple Syrup and Spices
After simmering for half an hour, stir in 1/4 cup of maple syrup, 1/4 tsp of cinnamon, and 1/2 tsp of brown sugar. Mix well and continue to cook the mixture over low heat for another 10-15 minutes until it has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 3: Roast the Pears
While the oatmeal is cooking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut 2 firm pears into bite-sized pieces and place them onto a baking sheet. Drizzle them with a little bit of melted butter and sprinkle with some brown sugar and cinnamon. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and slightly caramelized.
Step 4: Toast the Pecans
In a small skillet, toast 1/2 cup of pecans over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until slightly golden and fragrant.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl
Once everything is ready, ladle the oatmeal into bowls, top with your roasted pears and toasted pecans. You can also add some dried currants, super seeds, or drizzle with additional maple syrup if desired.
Enjoy this hearty breakfast with a steaming cup of hot coffee or tea on a chilly morning!
Substitutions and Variations
Looking to make this Irish oatmeal recipe your own? There are plenty of ways you can switch up the toppings and flavors to suit your personal preferences. Here are a few ideas for substitutions and variations:
1. Experiment with different fruits: While pears are the perfect complement to this recipe, other fruits like apples, bananas, and berries can also work well. Try swapping in your favorite fruits and see what delicious combinations you can create.
2. Mix up the nuts: Pecans are a classic choice for topping oatmeal, but don’t be afraid to try others like almonds or walnuts. You could even skip the nuts altogether and add pumpkin or sunflower seeds for a different texture.
3. Switch up the sweetener: Maple syrup is a key ingredient in this recipe, but if you don’t have any on hand or prefer a different sweetener, you can use honey or brown sugar instead.
4. Explore different spices: While cinnamon is a staple spice for oatmeal, don’t be afraid to try others like nutmeg, cardamom or ginger to add extra warmth and complexity to your dish.
5. Try different types of oats: This recipe calls for steel cut oats, but you can also use rolled oats or even quick oats in a pinch. However, keep in mind that using different types of oats may affect cooking time and texture.
With these substitutions and variations, you can customize this Irish oatmeal recipe to be truly your own.
Serving and Pairing
This delightful Irish oatmeal with pears and maple recipe is not only super healthy but also incredibly delicious. Once you’ve cooked up a big batch of this nutritional powerhouse, you’ll want to serve it up straight away while it’s still hot and hearty. The creamy consistency of the oatmeal pairs perfectly with the soft yet juicy texture of the roasted pears.
The best way to serve Irish oatmeal pears maple recipe is to top it with some toasted pecans, currants or a dollop of whipped cream for added decadence and crunch. If you prefer a lighter touch, then try using nut milk or soy milk instead. For those looking for an extra punch of sweetness, adding a drizzle of pure maple syrup or brown sugar is a perfect idea.
This oatmeal pear recipe pairs well with a variety of breakfast dishes, such as croissants, muffins or pancakes but also makes a stellar midday snack too. To pair your Irish oatmeal with other foods, consider fruit salad drizzled with honey, eggs Benedict topped with Hollandaise sauce or toasted bread spread with butter and sprinkled with cinnamon sugar.
Lastly, don’t forget about drinks! There’s nothing better than a steaming cup of coffee or tea to accompany this warm bowl of Irish oatmeal goodness. Why not try pairing it with some apple cider or chai tea for something that’s sweet yet spicy? It’s sure to make your taste buds sing!
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
One of the best things about this Irish oatmeal with pears and maple recipe is that it can be made ahead of time, making it perfect for weekday breakfasts or brunch. To make ahead, follow the recipe as directed and let it cool completely before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
When reheating, you can use the microwave or stovetop method. To reheat in the microwave, simply spoon out the desired portion into a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until heated through.
To reheat on the stovetop, spoon out the desired portion into a small saucepan and heat over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or water and stirring regularly until heated through.
For an even more indulgent breakfast experience, try topping your reheated oatmeal with additional toppings like roasted pecans or buttered pear slices before reheating.
Overall, this recipe is very convenient to store as well. You can freeze the oatmeal in an airtight container for up to two months. Freeze in portions so you don’t have to defrost more than what you need.
In summary, this Irish oatmeal with pears and maple recipe is perfect for making ahead and reheating for a quick breakfast option. And with proper storage techniques, you can keep enjoying it even after it’s made!
Tips for Perfect Results
When it comes to making Irish oatmeal with pears and maple, there are a few tips that you should keep in mind to ensure that the end result is perfect. Here are some tips that I have discovered while making this recipe countless times:
1. Use Steel Cut Oats: Steel cut oats work best in this recipe as they give a chewier texture and add more flavor compared to rolled oats.
2. Toast the Pecans: Toasting the pecans before adding them to the oatmeal enhances their flavor and adds crunchiness to the dish.
3. Don’t Overcook the Pears: It’s important not to overcook the pears, as they will become mushy and lose their shape. Cook them just enough for them to soften but still hold their shape.
4. Use Real Maple Syrup: Using real maple syrup instead of artificial ones elevates the flavor of this dish, giving it a natural sweetness without being too overpowering.
5. Add Salt to Taste: While adding salt might seem counter-intuitive when making something sweet, it helps balance out the flavors in this dish, so don’t skip it.
6. Adjust the Liquid Ratio: If you prefer your oatmeal thicker or thinner, adjust the liquid ratio accordingly. Start with slightly less water, and add more as needed until desired consistency is achieved.
7. Try Different Variations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations of this recipe! You can try adding different fruits, nuts, or spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for some variety.
Remember these tips when making Irish oatmeal with pears and maple so you can achieve a perfect bowl every time!
FAQ
Before wrapping up this recipe article, let me address some frequently asked questions about this Irish Oatmeal With Pears and Maple Recipe.
What makes Irish oatmeal different?
When it comes to oats, steel-cut oats are the least processed version. They are also referred to as Irish or coarse oats since they are chopped into smaller pieces through the use of steel blades. Unlike quick oatmeal, these oats take more time to cook and offer a chewier texture and a stronger taste.
What is Irish style oatmeal?
When it comes to oatmeal, steel-cut oats, also known as Irish oats, are considered one of the healthiest choices out there. These oats are made from whole oat groats that have been sliced into 2 or 3 pieces using a steel blade. Unlike heavily processed oatmeal products, steel-cut oats retain all their natural nutritional goodness.
How is oatmeal served in Ireland?
To enhance the flavor, I recommend seasoning the porridge with a pinch of salt. Once cooked, garnish it with a generous sprinkle of soft brown sugar and serve with a refreshing glass of cold milk on the side. In Ireland, this cooking approach is often referred to as making porridge “on water” and it’s a beloved and widely-used method.
Is McCann’s Irish Oatmeal good for you?
When it comes to saturated fat, you’ll be pleased to know that each serving of McCann’s® Irish Oatmeal only contains a mere half a gram. Plus, no need to worry about cholesterol as it’s absent from all products! What’s more, this oatmeal is chock-full of both insoluble and soluble fiber, both of which are beneficial to overall health.
Why are Irish oats better?
As a British cuisine chef, I highly appreciate the abundant rivers that flow into the Irish Sea and the fertile soil that nourishes the oats. This unique ecosystem provides the perfect conditions for the grains to ripen unhurriedly and absorb the essential nutrients from the soil. These factors contribute to the rich texture, nutty flavor, and nutritional value of oats, making them a highly valued ingredient for cooking.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Irish Oatmeal with Pears and Maple recipe is a scrumptious and wholesome breakfast that will undoubtedly make your mornings better. The warmth and coziness of the oats coupled with the sweet indulgence of the maple syrup and pears will keep you fueled throughout your day. I highly recommend trying this recipe and experimenting with different variations to find your perfect blend.
Remember to use high-quality ingredients such as McCann’s Irish Oatmeal, fresh pears, and pure maple syrup to achieve the best results possible. Also, don’t hesitate to incorporate substitutions or variations that suit your tastes and preferences.
Make sure you follow the tips on preparation, serving and storing, as well as how-to instructions, for optimal results. Don’t forget to also check out the FAQ section for any additional questions that may help you along the way.
This dish is an excellent balance of nutrition and indulgence, which makes it a fantastic choice for solo mornings or when entertaining guests. Lastly, have fun in the kitchen as you experiment with different combinations of pecans, currants, super seeds, roasted pears or even nut milk – after all, trying something new can lead to unexpected delight!
So what are you waiting for? Grab some Irish oatmeal, pears, maple syrup and any other ingredients of your choice to enjoy this incredibly comforting breakfast that is sure to WOW your taste buds!
Irish Oatmeal With Pears and Maple Recipe
Ingredients
OATMEAL
- 1 1/4 cups steel cut oats
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 5 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
PEAR AND MAPLE TOPPING
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 2 pears, peeled, cored and diced
- 2 tablespoons currants
- 1/2 cup shelled pecans, toasted and coarsely chopped
- maple syrup
Instructions
- OATMEAL: In a saucepan over medium-high heat, toast the oats in the butter for 2 minutes. Add the water and salt. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer gently, uncovered, until the oatmeal thickens and is tender, 25 to 30 minutes, stirring frequently, especially toward the end.
- PEAR AND MAPLE TOPPING:Meanwhile, in a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the butter and sugar until they begin to colour. Add the pears and currants. Sauté until the pears are tender and coloured a light gold, about 4 minutes.
- Serve the hot oatmeal in bowls. Spoon some of the topping onto each portion. Sprinkle with pecans and drizzle with maple syrup.
Nutrition
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Brian is a British chef cum food blogger who has been in the kitchen since he was a young lad. Growing up in Manchester, he developed a passion for cooking and a keen eye for the perfect dish. He now runs his own blog and YouTube channel, which is dedicated to sharing his passion for food with the world.