Oat-rageously good!

Celebrating the humble oat this ‘International Porridge Day’ on 10th October

Oats are a versatile and nutritious whole grain that offer numerous health benefits. Being high in fibre, oats can aid in digestion and promote a feeling of fullness, making them a great option for weight management.

Additionally, oats contain beta-glucan, a type of soluble fibre that has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. They are also rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation in the body. Consuming oats regularly may also help stabilise blood sugar levels, making them a beneficial choice for individuals with diabetes. Overall, incorporating oats into your diet can contribute to improved overall health and well-being.

Who can resist the allure of a warm, gooey cookie? Kids are no exception to this universal love for cookies, and getting them to enjoy a nutritious breakfast can sometimes be a challenge. However, with the innovation of a porridge cookie recipe, it's easy to combine the nutritional benefits of porridge with the irresistible appeal of a cookie. This creative twist on a traditional breakfast option is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters and provide them with the energy they need to start their day. One great way to prepare these delightful treats is by using an Air Fryer which ensures a quick and hassle-free cooking process.

Porridge ‘To Go’ Cookies

Ingredients:

(makes 6 cookies)

• 55 grams rolled oats

• 1 medium banana

• 30 grams raisins

• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Method:

• In a bowl mash the banana until thoroughly softened, wet and sticky.

• Add the oats, raisins and cinnamon and mix together well so that all the oats and raisins are coated in banana and moist.

• Line your air fryer basket with baking paper and spoon tablespoon sized amounts of the cookie mixture onto it leaving around an inch between each cookie.

• Bake for 10-12 minutes at 165c.

• Enjoy on their own or serve with fresh fruit and greek yogurt.

International Porridge Day

Every 10th of October, the international community celebrates World Porridge Day, which aims to raise funds for the charity Mary's Meals. This charity, based in Argyll, Scotland, provides nutrient-rich maize-based porridge (Likuni Phala) to feed hungry children in developing countries. This day not only promotes the consumption of porridge but also highlights the importance of providing nutritious meals to children in need around the world. You can find out more here: www.marysmeals.org.uk

Did you know?…

Porridge was historically a staple in the British prison system, earning the slang term "doing porridge" as a reference to serving time behind bars. 

In Scotland, farmers used to repurpose leftover porridge by drying it out and cutting it into slices to create an on-the-go snack, known as a 'porridge drawer.”

Oats were one of the first cereals cultivated by man? They were used in ancient China and Greece, where the Greeks were the first to turn them into porridge.

Oat milk typically uses the least water in production when compared to other plants turned into milk. It also has a relatively low greenhouse footprint!

Image Credits: elif tekkeya via pexels.com