Savory Oatmeal with Sesame and Scallions

These days, our breakfasts generally involve oatmeal. However, not too long ago, we exhausted our supply of pre-flavored oatmeal, but we still had a few canisters of bulk unflavored oatmeal. I thought about trying some savory oatmeals since a lot of Asian breakfasts similar to oatmeal (for example, congee and jook) tend to be a bit savory - why not try something similar with oatmeal? After doing some research, I found these recipes, and I thought I could make something similar. Although this combination of flavors may not seem like they really go together, they do have a delicious Asian flavoring due to the combination of soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions. In fact, many soups also contain similar flavorings. I'll admit, I was initially skeptical, being accustomed to the usual sweet American flavors, but after giving it a try, I've gone back for more, and this oatmeal is breakfast for us just about every weekday (and weekends too sometimes)! I even keep a stash of the materials needed at work, so I can make some whenever I want! This oatmeal is totally worth at least a try, and it's not really harder than making regular oatmeal. The measurements are more like estimates since I just add what looks like a good amount, figuring I can add more later on if I think it needs it.The only thing that's a bit different is I like to add the water first, and then the rest of the materials after that. If you add the soy sauce and/or sesame oil first, they will soak into the oats where they first make contact, resulting in a less homogeneous flavor distribution. However, if you add in the water first, that allows for a more uniform taste profile, so that you don't have some super salty/flavored parts and some bland parts. And also, happy birthday to James, my primary taste tester and magic sink!

Savory Oatmeal with Sesame and Scallions

by CJ Huang

A more Asian flavored oatmeal that's about as easy as regular oatmeal, but much more tasty!

Materials:

Mass	Weight	Volume	Number	Material	Notes
		1/2 cup		oatmeal
				hot water
		1-2 teaspoons		soy sauce
		1/2 teaspoon		sesame oil
		1 teaspoon		sesame seeds, toasted
				green onions, sliced

Methods:

1. Combine oatmeal and water.
2. Add in soy sauce and sesame oil. I like to add these after adding the water to get a more homogeneous mixture.
3. Top with green onions and sesame seeds.
4. Stir to combine.
5. Eat and be amazed.