Rolled oats, also known as old-fashioned oats, are oat kernels that have been steamed and flattened. This process creates a larger surface area, allowing them to cook faster than steel-cut oats. When cooked properly, rolled oats provide a creamy, comforting base for a variety of toppings, making them a popular choice for breakfast.

To cook rolled oats in your Instant Pot, follow these simple steps:

Ingredients:

1 cup rolled oats
2 cups water (or a mix of water and milk for creaminess)
A pinch of salt (optional)

Cooking Time:

Set the Instant Pot: Add the rolled oats, liquid, and salt to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
Pressure Cooking: Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 2 minutes.
Natural Release: Once the cooking time is complete, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release pressure for 10 minutes. After that, you can manually release any remaining steam.

While the actual cooking time is just 2 minutes, remember that the Instant Pot will take about 8 minutes to come to pressure and will require an additional 10 minutes for natural release. This brings the total time to approximately 20 minutes from start to finish.

The key to achieving the desired consistency of your oatmeal lies in the liquid-to-oat ratio. For rolled oats, the recommended ratio is 2 cups of liquid for every 1 cup of oats. If you prefer creamier oatmeal, you can use up to 2.5 cups of liquid.

Avoiding Burn Messages: To prevent the Instant Pot from displaying a burn message, avoid using dairy milk directly. Instead, use water or non-dairy milk alternatives like almond milk. Ensure that the seal ring is properly in place, and consider spraying the bottom of the pot with a little oil.

Batch Cooking: The Instant Pot is great for batch cooking. You can easily double the recipe without changing the cooking time. Just make sure to use the same 2:1 liquid-to-oat ratio.

Storage and Reheating: Leftover oatmeal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or milk to loosen it up.

Once your rolled oats are cooked, the fun part begins—topping them! Here are some ideas to elevate your oatmeal:

Fruits: Fresh or frozen berries, sliced bananas, or diced apples.
Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, or flaxseeds for added crunch and nutrition.
Sweeteners: Drizzle with honey, maple syrup, or sprinkle with brown sugar.
Spices: Cinnamon, nutmeg, or pumpkin pie spice for extra flavor.
Nut Butters: A spoonful of peanut butter or almond butter for creaminess and protein.

Cooking rolled oats in an Instant Pot is a quick and efficient way to enjoy a nutritious breakfast. With just 2 minutes of cooking time, plus the time for pressure building and natural release, you can have a delicious bowl of oatmeal ready in about 20 minutes. Remember to experiment with different liquids and toppings to find your perfect combination. Enjoy your creamy, comforting rolled oats!