7 Oatmeal Alternatives to Spice Up Your Breakfast

These oatmeal alternatives are a great way to try something new at breakfast. From mung bean porridge to chia pudding, here are our seven favorite swaps.

Oats are a nutrient-dense, whole-grain food commonly boiled and eaten at breakfast as oatmeal or porridge. Eating oatmeal is said to have many health benefits, including reduced cholesterol levels, improved blood sugar control, and an increased feeling of fullness. Whether you’re bored of the same old porridge for breakfast or simply want to try something different, we’ve compiled a list of oatmeal alternatives so you can change up your morning routine without compromising on the nutritious health benefits.

Proats: Easy Recipe for Protein Oats — Photo: CC0 Public Domain / Pixabay – DagnyWalter

Proats: Easy Breakfast Recipe for Protein Oats

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Buckwheat groats are a nutritional oatmeal alternative.
(Foto: CC0 Public Domain / Unsplash / Łukasz Rawa )

Buckwheat is a type of seed known as a pseudocereal and is a gluten-free grain. It has a toasty, nutty flavor and a soft but chewy texture, making it a great oatmeal alternative. Buckwheat groats contain a large amount of fiber as well as important vitamins and minerals like magnesium, phosphorus, and potassium. You can use buckwheat groats to make a delicious porridge known as kasha. This type of breakfast porridge goes well with warming spices like ginger and cinnamon and dried fruit.

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Mung beans might seem like an odd choice for an oatmeal alternative, but this porridge will pleasantly surprise you.
(Foto: CC0 Public Domain / Unsplash / David Gabrielyan)

Mung beans are one of the best sources of plant-based protein and are thought to have some pretty incredible health benefits. Mung beans may reduce blood pressure and aid digestive health. Mung bean porridge, also known as bubur kacang hijau, is a delicious oatmeal alternative that is popular in Indonesian cuisine as a breakfast or sweet mid-afternoon snack.

3. Amaranth

Amaranth is often compared to quinoa but comes with its own health benefits.
(Foto: CC0 / Pixabay / sweetlouise)

Amaranth is another high-protein pseudocereal that makes an ideal oatmeal alternative. It has an earthy and nutty flavor and its texture provides a nice base for a creamy porridge. Wondering how to cook amaranth? It’s easy. To make an amaranth porridge, you’ll mix amaranth seeds with your choice of milk on the stove and allow the mixture to simmer for 25 minutes before adding your favorite toppings, like coconut flakes, seeds, or a peanut butter alternative.

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Quinoa is an ancient grain that can be used for both sweet and savory dishes.
(Foto: CC0 Public Domain / Unsplash / Pierre Bamin)

You might think of quinoa as a savory dish, but this ancient grain can be used as a breakfast ingredient as well. A quinoa pudding makes a great oatmeal alternative and can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as with coconut milk or almond milk as a base. Quinoa is good for you, so you don’t need to worry about missing out on vital nutrients.

5. Ground Flaxseed

To use ground flaxseed as an oatmeal alternative, you'll want to combine it with ground nuts.
(Foto: CC0 Public Domain / Unsplash / Karyna Panchenko)

You’ve probably heard you can use flaxseed to make vegan egg substitute, oil for hair care, or plant-based flaxseed milk, but these small seeds can do so much more. They’re high in fiber and omega-3s, which help aid digestion and relieve constipation. In order to reap the full benefits, you’ll want to enjoy ground flaxseed as your low-carb oatmeal alternative, as your body can absorb the nutrients much better. Simply grind flaxseeds together with your favorite nut or seed and add to your choice of milk to make a porridge.

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Chia pudding is an easy oatmeal alternative that can be made ahead of time.
(Foto: CC0 Public Domain / Unsplash / Kaffee Meister )

For fans of overnight oats, you may be interested in another overnight oatmeal alternative. That’s where chia pudding comes in. Full of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and calcium, these small but mighty seeds pack a punch. You can make fruity overnight chia pudding to replace overnight oats and top it with chopped nuts and fresh fruit.

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Did you know that you can eat rice pudding for breakfast?
(Foto: CC0 Public Domain / Unsplash / Alexandru Acea)

It may seem counterintuitive to eat rice pudding for breakfast, but you absolutely can. Just be sure to add healthy toppings like fresh fruit, nuts, or seeds. Eating rice for breakfast as an oatmeal alternative is healthiest if you use brown rice, as it’s higher in selenium, fiber, manganese, and protein than white rice. If you’re looking for more ways to eat rice for breakfast, try making poha, a breakfast rice dish from India.

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Tags: Alternatives Baking Breakfast Guide Vegan