Description
This Indian-Style Overnight Oats recipe offers a delicious and nutritious twist on classic overnight oats, combining creamy yogurt, warm saffron, aromatic cardamom, and subtle rose water for a unique breakfast experience. Ready in minutes the night before, it’s an easy, no-cook, wholesome meal to start your day with vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients.
Ingredients
Scale
Oats Mixture
- 1/2 cup rolled oats
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/4 cup plain yogurt (or Greek yogurt)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1.5 tablespoons maple syrup or honey
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1/2 teaspoon rose water (optional but magical)
Saffron Infusion and Toppings
- A pinch of saffron threads
- 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios (plus more for topping)
Instructions
- Saffron Infusion: In a small bowl, gently warm 1 tablespoon of milk until warm but not boiling. Add the saffron threads and let them infuse to release their color and aroma. Set aside while preparing the oats mixture.
- Prepare Oats Mixture: In a jar or mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, yogurt, chia seeds, maple syrup or honey, ground cardamom, rose water if using, and the remaining milk. Stir thoroughly until you get a thick yet loose batter consistency.
- Combine Ingredients: Mix the saffron-infused warm milk and chopped pistachios into the oats mixture, stirring well to evenly distribute the saffron flavor and color throughout.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Divide the mixture evenly between two glass jars or containers. Cover them tightly and refrigerate overnight or for at least 4 to 6 hours so the oats and chia seeds can soak and soften.
- Serve and Garnish: In the morning, give each jar a good stir. Top with extra chopped pistachios and additional saffron strands for garnish. Serve cold and enjoy your flavorful, healthy breakfast.
Notes
- This recipe can be easily customized with your choice of milk—dairy or plant-based milks like almond, oat, or coconut work well.
- Rose water is optional but adds a lovely floral note that complements the cardamom and saffron.
- Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of maple syrup or honey to suit your taste.
- You can prepare this recipe in advance for up to 2 days in the refrigerator for quick, grab-and-go breakfasts.
- Feel free to substitute chopped nuts or add fresh fruit toppings as desired for added texture and flavor.
