Savory Oatmeal with Strips & Egg
Elevate your morning routine with this unexpectedly delicious savory oatmeal bowl, featuring creamy oats, crispy bacon, a perfectly poached egg, and fresh scallions for a satisfying and protein-packed start to your day.
For 1 serving
Cook the bacon: Place the bacon strips in a cold skillet over medium heat. Cook for 5-7 minutes, flipping occasionally, until crispy. Remove bacon, place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat, then crumble once cool enough to handle. Reserve 1 teaspoon of bacon fat in the skillet (optional, for flavor).
Prepare the oats: In a small saucepan, combine the old-fashioned rolled oats, water (or broth), and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and oats are creamy. Stir in the black pepper and optional soy sauce/tamari. If using the reserved bacon fat, stir it into the oats now.
Poach the egg: While the oats are cooking, bring a small pot of water to a gentle simmer (not a rolling boil). Add a splash of white vinegar if desired (helps the egg hold its shape). Carefully crack the egg into a small bowl or ramekin, then gently slide it into the simmering water. Cook for 3-4 minutes for a runny yolk, or longer for a firmer yolk. Remove with a slotted spoon.
Assemble the bowl: Pour the cooked oatmeal into a serving bowl. Create a small well in the center of the oats.
Garnish and serve: Carefully place the poached egg into the well. Top generously with the crumbled crispy bacon and sliced scallions. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra creamy oats, stir frequently during the last few minutes of cooking and add a splash more liquid if needed. Using broth instead of water also enhances the savory depth.
- 2To achieve a perfect poached egg, ensure the water is at a gentle simmer, not boiling vigorously. A small amount of white vinegar (1 tsp per cup of water) can help the egg whites set quickly and prevent them from spreading.
- 3Don't discard the bacon fat! A small amount stirred into the oats adds incredible depth of flavor and a silky texture. Just a teaspoon is usually enough.
- 4Experiment with different textures: If you prefer a chewier oat, reduce the cooking time slightly. For a softer, more porridge-like consistency, add a little more liquid and cook longer.
Adapt it for your goals.
Vegetarian/Vegan Option
Replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms (cremini or shiitake) cooked in a little olive oil until browned and savory. For a vegan option, omit the egg and add pan-fried tofu or tempeh crumbles seasoned with nutritional yeast and soy sauce.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha into the oats, or drizzle chili oil over the finished bowl for an extra layer of heat.
Umami BoostUmami Boost
Add a teaspoon of nutritional yeast to the oats while cooking for a cheesy, savory flavor, or sprinkle a tiny amount of furikake (Japanese rice seasoning) over the top.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Sustained Energy
Old-fashioned rolled oats are a complex carbohydrate, providing slow-release energy that helps keep you full and energized throughout the morning without a sugar crash.
High in Protein
The combination of bacon and a large egg delivers a significant amount of protein, essential for muscle repair, satiety, and overall body function.
Fiber-Rich
Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol, stabilize blood sugar levels, and promote healthy digestion.
Frequently asked questions
While you can, quick oats will result in a much softer, less textured oatmeal. Old-fashioned rolled oats provide a better chew and absorb the savory flavors more effectively without becoming mushy.
