Oatmeal for breakfast is probably the first thing that comes to mind when packing your oatmeal for your next family adventure in the great outdoors, but there are many other oatmeal uses.
But the truth is that oatmeal is being used in so many ways now that it’s a great option when deciding what to bring on your camping trip.
In this article, we’ll explore 15 inventive oatmeal uses while you’re camping. Keep in mind that steel-cut or old-fashioned oats will work just fine.
We’ll show you how to transform this staple into an essential one for your outdoor adventures.
From hearty dinners to energy-packed snacks, we give some ideas for your camping experience and prove that oatmeal is not just for breakfast anymore.
First, some Breakfast ideas
Well, of course, we start with just a wonderfully hot bowl of oatmeal with some fresh fruit and granola on top. This is pretty much what Paul and I eat every other morning.
Let’s think a little more outside of the box.
Oatmeal pancakes or waffles – If you want to make pure oatmeal pancakes. just grind some oats to make flour and use that for making your homemade pancakes or waffles. Don’t forget the pure maple syrup. Paul and I visited this Harvest Host (see link below) when we were in Vermont last fall. We toured the facility and, of course, tasted and bought the real stuff. Ditch that fake syrup.
Bread or muffins with an oatmeal base – Adding oatmeal to your favorite bread or muffin recipes for added texture and nutritional benefits really brings your baked goods to the next level.
Oatmeal cookies – Having cookies for breakfast would have been a dream come true when I was a kid. Adding things like chocolate chips, nuts, dried fruits, and spices really makes a wonderful choice for breakfast.
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Granola Bars or energy bites – Mix some oatmeal with nuts, seeds, dried fruit, chia seeds, flaxseeds, or some protein powder. Use nut butter or honey to taste for a sweet binder. Roll the mixture into balls or bars. Refrigerate them for a quick breakfast or snack that is portable enough to take along on a hike or other outdoor adventure.
Oatmeal smoothie – If you cook some oatmeal ahead of time, you can add it to a blender along with your greens, fruit, and protein powder. The oatmeal will provide some added thickness and nutritional value.
What about savory oatmeal
Oatmeal can be used for a lot of things besides just a nice sweet breakfast. It can be used to create great meals or to support a recipe with thickening properties. Think of it like a rice or quinoa.
Savory oatmeal – We know that making oatmeal is excellent with some cinnamon, vanilla, and fruit, but what could you add to give it a more savory taste? Try making the oatmeal with a vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. Top it with sauteed vegetables or a fried or hard-boiled egg. Then, sprinkle it with some cheese and have a delicious lunch or dinner. Feel free to add your favorite spices to finish it off.
Oatmeal risotto – When you cook oatmeal with broth and stir in savory ingredients like mushrooms, onions, and Parmesan cheese, you have a fantastic twist on risotto.
One-pot oatmeal and beans – Make your oatmeal with water or broth, and then add canned beans, like black or kidney, for protein. Mix in some chili powder, cumin, and garlic for a savory kick.
Oatmeal and sausage skillet – Cook your oatmeal in a skillet over the campfire. Add some pre-cooked sausages to the skillet and brown them. Toss in some chopped onions and bell peppers to get a great smokey flavor.
Stuffed peppers – Cut the peppers in half and remove the seeds. Mix oatmeal, canned diced tomatoes, black beans, and spices. Stuff the peppers and, wrap them in foil, and cook over the campfire.
Baked oats – If you really want to make a fantastic baked oatmeal meal for dinner, add some vegetables, cheese, and eggs. Mix together with a few more ingredients and bake. Yummmm!
Soups and stews – Oatmeal can be used as a natural thickening agent for soups and stews. It gives it a nice texture and is healthier than traditional thickeners.
Oatmeal for dessert
Oatmeal can be used for so many things, including dessert. We all know about oatmeal raisin cookies, but there is more than that.
Using oatmeal for pie and tart crusts – Combine oats with melted butter or coconut oil to make a delicious crust for all types of pies, savory or sweet.
Chocolate oatmeal bars – Want to make something that is easy and extremely tasty? These oatmeal bars are great at home or at your campsite.
Bananas Foster oatmeal – When it comes to dessert, this is a classic. It’s easy to make bananas foster oatmeal at your campsite because there really aren’t that many ingredients. Remember, you can always add some dark rum for the adult version.
Finally
Bringing oatmeal with you when you venture out for a fun outdoor camping trip is a great way to have an ingredient with you that can be used in so many ways.
Whether you are using it for a classic breakfast, a savory dinner, or a sweet dessert, it’s always good to have some oatmeal with you.
Oats are an excellent nutritional source. They give you fiber and good carbs. They are also a great source of important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant plant compounds.
I always have some oats with me just to be able to mix some cold milk with uncooked oats as a replacement for store-bought cereal.
It’s one of the items that I always have with me.
Nibbler Tip: Always remember to store oats in a cool, dry place to prevent them from absorbing moisture and becoming clumpy.
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