Tropical Instant Oatmeal Mix

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This oatmeal mix brings the flavors of the tropics to the breakfast staple.

Tropical Instant Oatmeal Mix
Photo: Victor Protasio
Hands On Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
20 mins
Servings:
20

Many ready-made oatmeal mixes are packed with lots of sugar but are low on mix-ins. This DIY instant oatmeal mix flips the equation with ample coconut, mango, and seeds that stud each bite. The chia seeds add texture as well as body since they turn pudding-like once combined with a liquid. Plus, thanks to the protein-packed pair of chia seeds and pepitas, this bowl will help boost energy. Keep this instant oatmeal mix in an airtight container on the kitchen counter to make mornings easier and nourishing. If you love overnight oats, just stir together a serving with ¾ cup of your preferred liquid and refrigerate overnight. P.S. Once you've tried this delightful combination, this would work well with other mix-ins of dried fruit, nuts, and seeds.

Shopping tip: unsweetened toasted flaked coconut is available at some supermarkets if you want to cut a step.

Ingredients

  • 1 ½ cups unsweetened flaked coconut

  • 6 cups old-fashioned rolled oats, divided

  • 1.5 cups dried mango (7 oz.), chopped

  • 1 cup roasted unsalted pumpkin seeds (pepitas)

  • cup chia seeds

  • 4 teaspoon light brown sugar

  • ½ teaspoon kosher salt

  • dairy or non-dairy milk, for serving (optional)

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Spread coconut evenly on a baking sheet. Bake until golden, about 3 minutes. Let cool to room temperature.

  2. Meanwhile, process 2 cups oats in a food processor until finely ground, about 1 minute. Transfer to a large bowl. Stir in coconut, mango, pepitas, chia seeds, sugar, salt, and remaining 4 cups oats. Store in an air-tight container at room temperature for up to 3 months.

  3. Scoop ½ cup mix into a large cereal bowl and stir in ¾ cup boiling water. Let sit until thickened, about 5 minutes. For a creamier version, combine ½ cup mix with ¾ cup water in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a paper towel, and microwave on high for 2 minutes. Stir in a splash of milk before serving, if desired.

Pumpkin Seeds

Also called pepitas, these are basically what you scoop from a jack-o'-lantern, just without the tough white hulls. The pretty green seeds have a delicate flavor and gentle crunch. Plus, they're rich in inflammation-reducing antioxidants and magnesium, a mineral that supports bone health. Try them blended into a smoothie or a pesto, or as a salad topper.

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