Baked oatmeal is a versatile dish that has been gaining popularity for its convenience, nutrition, and ability to be adapted to various flavors. One such delightful variation is the Mango Coconut Baked Oatmeal, inspired by the famous Thai dessert, mango sticky rice. This dish brings together the tropical sweetness of mangoes, the creamy richness of coconut milk, and the wholesome goodness of oats to create a perfect breakfast or brunch option, especially suited for warm summer days. Below is a detailed recipe and step-by-step guide to preparing this delicious and nutritious dish.
Table of Contents
Ingredients and Preparation
Main Ingredients:
- Oats: 3 cups of oats serve as the base of this dish, providing fiber and a chewy texture.
- Vanilla Protein Powder (optional): Adding a scoop of vanilla protein powder can enhance the nutritional profile, making it a more balanced meal with additional protein.
- Coconut Milk: 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk brings a rich and creamy texture to the oatmeal.
- Water: 2 cups of water are used to cook the oats to the right consistency.
- Maple Syrup: 3 tablespoons of maple syrup add natural sweetness without the need for refined sugar.
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon of salt helps to balance the flavors.
- Mango: 1 sliced mango provides a burst of fresh, tropical sweetness.
- White Sesame Seeds: These are sprinkled on top for an added crunch and a hint of nuttiness.
Drizzle:
- Coconut Milk: 1 cup of full-fat coconut milk is used to make a rich drizzle.
- Maple Syrup: 1/4 cup of maple syrup adds sweetness to the drizzle.
Method
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the oven is at the right temperature when you’re ready to bake, leading to an evenly cooked dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Baking Dish
- Grease a 9×12” baking dish lightly with oil or non-stick spray. This prevents the oatmeal from sticking to the dish and makes for easier cleanup.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the 3 cups of oats, 1 cup of coconut milk, 2 cups of water, 3 tablespoons of maple syrup, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. This mixture will serve as the base for your baked oatmeal.
Step 4: Transfer to Baking Dish
- Pour the oatmeal mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out into an even layer. This ensures that it bakes uniformly and every portion has a consistent texture.
Step 5: Bake
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 minutes. The oatmeal should be set and lightly golden on top when it’s done. This baking process cooks the oats and melds all the flavors together.
Step 6: Prepare the Drizzle
- While the oats are baking, prepare the coconut maple drizzle. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together 1 cup of coconut milk and 1/4 cup of maple syrup. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes until it slightly thickens. Remove from heat and set aside. This drizzle will add an extra layer of sweetness and creaminess to the final dish.
Step 7: Serve
- Once the baked oatmeal is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm, topped with sliced mango, a generous drizzle of the coconut milk mixture, and a sprinkle of white sesame seeds. This combination of flavors and textures makes each bite a delightful experience.
Nutritional Benefits
This Mango Coconut Baked Oatmeal is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits:
- Oats: A great source of dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health. They also provide important vitamins and minerals like manganese, phosphorus, and magnesium.
- Coconut Milk: Rich in healthy fats, particularly medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), which are known to boost energy and support brain health.
- Mango: High in vitamins A and C, mangoes contribute to immune function and skin health. They also offer a good amount of fiber.
- Maple Syrup: A natural sweetener that contains antioxidants and minerals like zinc and manganese.
Variations and Tips
- Protein Boost: For an extra protein boost, include a scoop of vanilla protein powder. This is especially useful for those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Nutty Flavor: Add a handful of chopped nuts such as almonds or cashews to the oatmeal mixture for additional crunch and nutrition.
- Different Fruits: If mangoes are not available, other fruits like peaches, berries, or even pineapple can be used as a substitute.
- Spices: For added warmth and flavor, consider incorporating spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom into the oatmeal mixture.
Mango Coconut Baked Oatmeal is a delightful and nutritious dish that perfectly combines the flavors of tropical fruits with the wholesome goodness of oats. It’s easy to prepare and versatile, making it a fantastic option for breakfast or brunch. The recipe allows for plenty of customization, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to suit your taste. Enjoy this delicious dish on a warm summer morning or any time you crave a taste of the tropics.
