Golden Chai Spiced Oatmeal (Printable)

Warm spiced oatmeal with turmeric, chai-inspired spices, nuts, and dried fruit for a comforting breakfast.

# What You’ll Need:

→ Grains

01 - 1 cup rolled oats

→ Liquids

02 - 2 cups milk (dairy or unsweetened plant-based)
03 - 1/2 cup water

→ Spices

04 - 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
07 - 1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
08 - Pinch of ground black pepper
09 - Pinch of ground cloves (optional)

→ Sweeteners

10 - 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey

→ Toppings

11 - 2 tablespoons chopped toasted nuts (almonds, pistachios, or walnuts)
12 - 1 tablespoon raisins or chopped dried apricots
13 - 1 teaspoon chia seeds (optional)
14 - Drizzle of milk or yogurt, to finish

# How-To Steps:

01 - In a medium saucepan, combine oats, milk, and water.
02 - Stir in turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, black pepper, and cloves if using.
03 - Bring mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
04 - Reduce heat and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring often, until oats are creamy and thickened.
05 - Remove from heat and stir in maple syrup or honey.
06 - Divide between two bowls. Top with nuts, dried fruit, chia seeds if using, and an extra drizzle of milk or yogurt as desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The combination of warming spices makes everything feel right with the world
  • It is like getting a hug from the inside out
  • Takes 15 minutes but tastes like something special
02 -
  • The black pepper is not optional if you want the turmeric benefits
  • Plant milk can scorch faster than dairy, so keep the heat moderate
  • The oats continue thickening as they sit, so do not overcook
03 -
  • Toast your spices in a dry pan for 30 seconds before adding them
  • Grate fresh ginger if you have it instead of ground
  • A pinch of salt makes all the flavors pop