Recipes
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Everyone loves a warm treat during the holiday season - especially one you can start those chilly days off with. These comforting oats are spiced with ras el hanout, a spice blend that originated in Africa, and typically includes a combination of ingredients like cardamom, cinnamon, allspice, coriander, nutmeg, turmeric, black pepper, white pepper, cayenne, anise and clove. A variety of this blend can usually be found at most grocery stores, but if you're ambitious you can even make your own!
These oats are subtly sweet from honey, have a great crunchy contrast from cacao nibs, and have the slightest hint of floral from the saffron. Actually, I was inspired to create this recipe after learning about the effects of saffron on mood from Dr. Daniel Amen's book, "You, Happier." Saffron has been studied as a natural option for those seeking relief from depression. I am no expert on the subject of the chemical effects of saffron on mood, but find it fascinating and encourage you to do your own research! I will say, without a doubt, that the flavor combination of this oatmeal recipe is something to smile about.
• Pinch of saffron
• Pinch of cardamom seeds (removed from pod)
• 1 tablespoon boiling water
• 1/3 heaping cup rolled oats
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 Tablespoon peanut butter
• 1 Tablespoon honey
• 1 Tablespoon chia seeds
• 1/4 teaspoon ras el hanout
• 1 Tablespoon cacao nibs
1. Grind the cardamom and saffron together with a mortar and pestle or in a coffee grinder until they become a fine powder.
2. Put the mixture into a tiny bowl or jar and add 1 Tablespoon of boiling water. Allow this to steep while you cook the oats.
3. Add the oats, 1/2 cup of water and peanut butter to a small pot.
4. Bring to a boil and then turn immediately to a low simmer, stirring frequently until oats are cooked through, thick and creamy, not watery (about 5 minutes).
5. Add in the saffron and cardamom mixture, and stir to combine. If oats are too dry and not creamy, add water, a tablespoon at a time, to achieve a creamy consistency.
6. Turn off heat.
7. Add chia seeds, honey and ras el hanout and stir to combine.
8. Dish into your favorite bowl, top with cacao nibs and enjoy.
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