Banana Bread Oatmeal
By Emily Buys of Clever Housewife
School is back in session and it's anything but normal. This school year kicked off with distance learning, which means the kids are around more than ever. Whether the kids (or adults) are off in a hurry or take their time getting breakfast between classes, this vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal fits the bill. This particular homemade oatmeal is hearty and filling, all while tasting like it could be a dessert!
Part of what makes this oatmeal so creamy and delicious is cooking the oats in almond milk instead of water. Then, add in some mashed banana for extra flavor and volume! My mom used to say oatmeal is great because it sticks to your ribs - meaning it's filling and tides you over for a while. Oatmeal can be a superb option for those trying to watch their figure too. Each of the ingredients are wholesome and nutritious so you're not looking for your next snack fix so soon.
Oats are such a nutrient-rich food full of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber! The health benefits of oats are part of what makes oatmeal such a great breakfast and start to the day. Even better is oats are naturally gluten free! What about the rest of the ingredients? I thought it would be fun to offer a quick breakdown of just a few of the health benefits of each and every ingredient that comprises my yummy vegan Banana Bread Oatmeal.
Health Benefits
Almond milk - low calorie and low in sugar, vitamin E, vitamin D, calcium and lactose free
Cinnamon - antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, anti-inflammatory properties, lowers blood sugar levels and more!
Vanilla - good for your heart and hair, can reduce acne, promotes healthy digestion and adds flavor
Banana - high in potassium, vitamin B6, vitamin C, manganese for your skin, great for energy and digestion
Coconut Oil - healthy fatty acids, good for heart health, good for hair, skin and teeth, and many more benefits
Maple syrup - antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, contains zinc and manganese, better-for-you sugar alternative
Walnuts - rich in antioxidants, high in Omega-3s, may decrease inflammation and promotes a healthy gut
As you can see, each of the ingredients for this oatmeal have amazing health benefits and it's delicious to boot!
Banana Bread Oatmeal
Ingredients:
1/2 cup quick oats (can swap for rolled oats and cook for 5 minutes longer)
2 cups almond milk
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/2 tsp vanilla
pint of salt
1 ripe banana
2 tsp coconut oil
2 tsp maple syrup
1 Tbsp walnuts, chopped
Instructions:
In a saucepan bring almond milk and oats to a boil. Stir in cinnamon, salt and vanilla and simmer for 10 minutes, until liquid is absorbed.
Mash half of a banana and stir into cooked oats. Slice the other half of banana and set aside.
In a small frying pan, saute banana slices and walnuts in coconut oil and maple syrup, over medium-high heat.
Top oatmeal with banana slices and walnuts, and any remaining drippings from frying pan. Serve immediately.
