How To Make Oatmeal Like Hotels Do? Expert Guide

Last Updated on September 15, 2024 by Shari Mason

Being a food critic who’s sampled countless hotel breakfasts, **oatmeal** always grabs my attention.

Despite being a humble and straightforward dish, hotels make it much better than what we usually prepare at home. 

I’ll share my tips on how to make oatmeal like hotels do, using my firsthand experience and knowledge of what makes a great bowl of oatmeal.

How Do You Make Hotel-Like Oatmeals?

When it comes to making oatmeal [1], the type of oats you use can make a big difference in the texture and flavor of the final dish.

Hotels often use steel-cut oats because they have a hearty texture and a nutty flavor. 

Steel-cut oats are made by chopping the oat groat into small pieces, which gives them a chewy texture and a rich, nutty flavor.

“I enjoy a good meal as much as anyone, but I get so confused by nutritional, budgetary, ecological, ethical, aesthetic, and time-management concerns that I often subsist for weeks on instant oatmeal and multivitamins.”

– Elif Batuman, American Author

On the other hand, rolled oats are more commonly used in home kitchens because they cook quickly and have a softer texture. 

Rolled oats are made by steaming and flattening the oat groat, resulting in a smoother texture and a milder flavor regardless of which type of oats you use, avoiding instant oats, which can become mushy and lose their texture during cooking.

Read: How To Sweeten Oatmeal Without Sugar?

How Much Liquid Should I Use?

The general rule of thumb is to use a ratio of 1:2, which means using one cup of oats and two cups of liquid. 

Depending on your preference, you can use water, milk, or a combination of both. If you like your oatmeal thicker, you can use less liquid; if you like it thinner, you can use more liquid. 

Just stir the oatmeal occasionally and ensure the liquid doesn’t evaporate too quickly. If the oatmeal is too thick, add a little more liquid.

How Long Should I Cook The Oatmeal?

The cooking time for oatmeal can vary depending on the type of oats you use. Steel-cut oats take longer to cook, usually around 20-30 minutes, while rolled oats [2] typically take 10-15 minutes. 

To cook oatmeal, bring the liquid to a boil, add the oats, and reduce the heat to low. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and ensure that the oatmeal cooks evenly. 

You can adjust the cooking time to your desired texture, so if you like your oatmeal chewier, cook it for less time, and if you like it softer, cook it for a little longer. 

Keep an eye on the oatmeal to prevent it from boiling or drying out. With some practice, you can master the art of cooking oatmeal to perfection.

How Should I Flavor The Oatmeal Like Hotels?

Oatmeal is a versatile dish that can be flavored in various ways to suit your tastes. Some popular flavorings include cinnamon, vanilla extract, brown sugar, honey, and maple syrup. 

You can add these flavorings while the oatmeal is cooking to infuse the flavor throughout the dish. Another way to add flavor is to top your oatmeal with your favorite fruits, nuts, or seeds. 

Fresh berries, chopped nuts, and chia seeds are all excellent options that can add texture and flavor to your oatmeal.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can experiment with different spice blends or extracts to create unique flavor combinations. 

How Can I Make Oatmeal In Bulk?

If you need to make oatmeal in bulk, you can use a few methods to ensure that the dish turns out perfectly. One way is to multiply the recipe by the needed servings and cook it in a large pot on the stove. 

Just make sure to use a pot that is large enough to hold all the ingredients and stir the oatmeal occasionally to prevent it from sticking or burning. 

“Making oatmeal like hotels do is the art of transforming humble grains into a comforting symphony that nourishes both body and soul, creating a breakfast experience worthy of a five-star stay.”

Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

Another option is to use a slow cooker to make oatmeal overnight so it’s ready to serve in the morning. To do this, add the oats, liquid, and flavorings to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. 

The oatmeal will be creamy and delicious by morning, and you won’t have to spend any extra time cooking in the morning. 

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Making oatmeal like hotels do is a simple and easy process that can be done in just a few steps.

Remember to use high-quality ingredients, adjust the cooking time to achieve the desired consistency, and experiment with different flavorings and toppings to create a personalized and delicious oatmeal experience. 

With some practice and creativity, you can enjoy hotel-quality oatmeal at home whenever you like.

References:

1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/9-benefits-oats-oatmeal
2. https://www.foodnetwork.com/how-to/packages/food-network-essentials/what-are-rolled-oats