Start your day with a nutritious and delicious breakfast that combines the rich flavors of cocoa, the sweetness of ripe bananas, and the hearty goodness of oatmeal. This Cocoa, Bananas, and Oatmeal recipe is easy to make, perfect for a quick morning meal, and can be tailored to be vegan or non-vegan. Let’s dive into the recipe and see how to create this delightful breakfast step-by-step.
Ingredients
- 1 ripe banana
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/3 tsp unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1/2 cup milk (vegan or non-vegan)
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)
- A pinch of salt
- A small handful of seeds or nuts for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Mash Banana: In a medium-sized bowl, mash the ripe banana until smooth. This will add natural sweetness and creaminess to your oatmeal.
Step 2: Cook the Oatmeal
- Combine Ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the rolled oats, mashed banana, unsweetened cocoa powder, milk, vanilla extract (if using), and a pinch of salt.
- Cook: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Cook the mixture, stirring frequently, until the oats are tender and the mixture has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. If the oatmeal becomes too thick, you can add a little more milk to reach your desired consistency.
Step 3: Serve
- Serve: Pour the cooked oatmeal into a bowl.
- Garnish: Top with a small handful of seeds or nuts if desired. This adds a nice crunch and extra nutrition to your breakfast.
Cooking Notes
- Oats: Use rolled oats for a hearty texture. Quick oats can also be used, but they will cook faster and have a softer texture.
- Milk: Any type of milk can be used in this recipe. Almond milk, soy milk, or traditional cow’s milk all work well. Choose your favorite based on dietary preferences and taste.
- Cocoa Powder: Ensure you are using unsweetened cocoa powder to keep the recipe healthy and to control the sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this oatmeal ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare this oatmeal ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of milk if needed to adjust the consistency.
Q: How can I add more protein to this breakfast? A: To increase the protein content, you can add a scoop of protein powder to the oatmeal mixture before cooking, or stir in some Greek yogurt or nut butter after cooking.
Q: Can I use other fruits instead of bananas? A: Absolutely! You can substitute the banana with other fruits such as berries, apples, or pears. Adjust the sweetness as needed, since bananas naturally add a lot of sweetness.
Keto/Low Carb Version
To make a keto or low-carb version of this oatmeal, you can replace the rolled oats with a low-carb oatmeal alternative made from seeds and nuts.
- Oats: Use a combination of chia seeds, flaxseeds, and hemp hearts to create a low-carb “oatmeal.”
- Banana: Use a small amount of berries instead of banana to reduce the carb content.
- Milk: Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk.
This Cocoa, Bananas, and Oatmeal recipe is a delicious and nutritious way to start your day. The combination of cocoa, bananas, and oats creates a rich and satisfying breakfast that’s packed with energy and flavor. Try this recipe today and enjoy a wholesome, homemade breakfast!
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