Savory Oatmeal with a Fried Egg
Transform your morning routine with this surprisingly delicious Savory Oatmeal, a hearty and healthy alternative to traditional sweet oats. Topped with a perfectly fried egg, a splash of umami-rich soy sauce, and fresh scallions, it's a quick and satisfying meal.
For 1 serving
Prepare Oats: In a small saucepan, combine the rolled oats, water (or vegetable broth), salt, and black pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Cook Oats: Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes, or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached a creamy, porridge-like consistency. If it becomes too thick, add a splash more water or broth.
Fry Egg: While the oats are cooking, heat olive oil in a small non-stick skillet over medium heat. Carefully crack the large egg into the hot oil. Cook for 2-3 minutes for a runny yolk, or longer for a firmer yolk, until the whites are set and the edges are slightly crispy. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Prepare Garnish: Thinly slice the scallion, separating the white and green parts if desired for presentation.
Assemble: Pour the cooked savory oats into a serving bowl. Gently slide the fried egg on top of the oats.
Season & Serve: Drizzle the soy sauce over the egg and oats. Garnish generously with the sliced scallions. For an extra layer of flavor, add a drizzle of toasted sesame oil and a sprinkle of chili flakes, if using. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Perfectly Creamy Oats: For extra creamy oats, use milk (dairy or non-dairy) instead of water, or stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese or a pat of butter at the end.
- 2Crispy Egg Edges: To achieve deliciously crispy edges on your fried egg, ensure your pan is hot enough and use a small amount of oil. Basting the egg with the hot oil can also help cook the top without flipping.
- 3Flavor Boosters: Don't be afraid to experiment with other savory toppings like a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor, a dash of hot sauce, or a spoonful of kimchi for fermentation and spice.
- 4Batch Cooking Base: Cook a larger batch of plain rolled oats with just water/salt at the beginning of the week. Reheat individual portions and customize with savory toppings for quick, varied meals.
Adapt it for your goals.
Umami Bomb
Stir in a teaspoon of miso paste or a pinch of dashi powder into the oats while cooking for an even deeper umami flavor. Top with furikake.
Spicy KimchiSpicy Kimchi
Add a tablespoon of chopped kimchi and a drizzle of gochujang to the oats for a vibrant, spicy, and probiotic-rich twist.
Mediterranean TwistMediterranean Twist
Replace soy sauce with a drizzle of olive oil, a squeeze of lemon, and a sprinkle of za'atar. Top with crumbled feta cheese and chopped fresh parsley.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Heart-Healthy Fiber
Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol levels and supports cardiovascular health.
Sustained Energy
The complex carbohydrates in oats provide a steady release of energy, preventing blood sugar spikes and keeping you feeling full and energized for longer.
High-Quality Protein
The addition of a large egg significantly boosts the protein content, providing essential amino acids necessary for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Frequently asked questions
While instant oats can be used, rolled oats (old-fashioned) are recommended for their superior texture and ability to hold up better to savory additions without becoming mushy. Adjust liquid amount if using instant.
