This nourishing bowl of Golden Oatmeal is infused with anti-inflammatory turmeric, sweet cinnamon and creamy coconut milk for a wholesome, satisfying breakfast. Gluten-free, vegan.
An Easy Breakfast Bowl Full of Benefits
Oats are well-known for their beneficial health properties, being rich in heart-healthy fiber and quick to cook into a creamy oatmeal. Adding turmeric into the mix brings anti-inflammatory curcumin, plus a delicious flavor and golden hue. Don't skip adding the pinch of black pepper, as this helps with the absorption of the curcumin! Top with berries, seeds or nut butter for a quick, customizable bowl that will keep you going till lunch.
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Ingredients and Substitutions
Gluten-free rolled oats - Use old-fashioned oats as these digest slightly slower than instant oats, keeping you fuller for longer. Check the oats you're using are certified gluten-free, if needed.
Unsweetened coconut milk - Adds creaminess and body. Use coconut milk drink from a carton for a lighter oatmeal, or canned coconut milk for a richer texture. Other non-dairy milks like almond or oat work well, too.
Chia seeds - Help the oatmeal to thicken while bringing protein, fiber and omega-3 fats. White or black chia seeds can be used.
Maple syrup - A natural sweetener with a mild flavor. You can substitute with agave nectar or honey (if not vegan), if preferred.
Turmeric - This anti-inflammatory spice has an earthy flavor and bright yellow color that gives this golden oatmeal its name.
Cinnamon and vanilla extract - Both add a subtle sweetness to the oatmeal without needing to add sugar. Use pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.
Black pepper - Adds a delicious fragrance to the oats and helps with the absorption of the anti-inflammatory compounds in turmeric.
Toppings - No bowl of oatmeal is complete without toppings. I like to add fresh berries, flaked coconut, hemp seeds or nut butter.
Salt and water
How to Make Golden Oatmeal
Step 1: In a medium saucepan, combine the oats, coconut milk, water, chia seeds, maple syrup, turmeric, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.
Step 2: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the oats are tender and the oatmeal has thickened to your desired consistency. If the oatmeal becomes too thick, stir in a splash of additional coconut milk or water.
Variations
- Chai-spiced: Add 1 teaspoon mixed ground chai spices in place of the ground cinnamon.
- Ginger & apple: Use 1-2 teaspoons ground ginger in place of the cinnamon. Shred an apple and stir into the cooked oats.
- Golden tea: Use ½ cup strong-brewed black tea in place of the water.
- Date-sweetened: Finely chop two pitted medjool dates and cook with the oats, in place of the maple syrup.
Recipe tips
- You can use ⅔ cup steel-cut oats in place of the rolled oats. You may need to add more liquid and will have to cook the mixture for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to soften fully.
- Topping with a sprinkle of nuts or seeds, or a spoonful of nut butter, adds healthy fats, fiber and protein which make the oats more sustaining (and delicious).
- Adjust the thickness of the oats to your liking by adding more or less coconut milk.
- Double the recipe so that you can have your breakfast meal-prepped for the week! You can either store leftovers in the refrigerator or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Serving suggestions
- Add cubed mango or fresh berries for an easy topping full of flavor.
- Sauté sliced banana in a little non-dairy butter and maple syrup for a dessert-like topping.
- Spoon on some Greek yogurt or non-dairy yogurt for an extra creamy texture.
- Cook up a quick strawberry compote for adding to the top of your bowl.
- Sprinkle on some toasted nuts or homemade granola for added crunch.
More Turmeric Recipes
Love this recipe? Please consider leaving a 5-star 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟rating on the recipe card below and let me know what you think in the comments!
📖 Recipe
Golden Oatmeal
Ingredients
- 1 cup gluten-free rolled oats
- 1 ½ cups unsweetened coconut milk
- ½ cup water
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or more to taste
- ½ teaspoon ground turmeric
- ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of sea salt and black pepper
- fresh berries for serving
- Optional toppings: unsweetened coconut flakes, hemp seeds, almond butter or cashew butter
Instructions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the oats, coconut milk, water, chia seeds, maple syrup, turmeric, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the oats are tender and the oatmeal has thickened to your desired consistency. If the oatmeal becomes too thick, stir in a splash of additional coconut milk or water.
- Divide the oatmeal between bowls and top with fresh berries and any optional toppings such as coconut flakes, nut butter, or hemp seeds. Serve warm.
Belinda
This is an incredibly delicious recipe. And super versatile. Even my young adult grandson loves it!
Tessa
Thank you, Belinda! That's so great to hear! :)