The finest oatmeal in the world
The temperate, humid climate of Ireland promotes the slow ripening of the grain. It enables the oats to draw the goodness from the soil and yield up nature's bounty. More on Irish oats
Preparation - Short cuts to Steel-cuts
The cut grain of steel-cut oats means they take longer to cook than rolled oats - but the distinctive texture makes it all worthwhile!
Here are some suggestions to help you make your bowl of morning goodness even quicker!
Quick Soak Method
One of the quickest and easiest ways to prepare McCann's Steel Cut Oats is to soak the oats overnight. Before going to bed, boil four cups of water in a pot, add one cup of oatmeal. Simmer 1 minute. Cover pot and store overnight in refrigerator. The next morning cook the oatmeal on low for 9 – 12 minutes; stirring occasionally.
Make ahead - be prepared
Make 5 days oatmeal in advance by adding 1 cup of McCann's Steel Cut Oatmeal to 4 cups of water. Cook as per the Quick Soak method opposite, allow to cool and store in individual servings in plastic bags, covered Tupperware container or glass bowl covered with plastic film. These can be stored in a fridge for up to 5 days.
Alternatively, the oatmeal can be frozen in individual ziplock bags for up to 3 months.
To Cook
From frozen: transfer to fridge the night before to thaw
From fridge: transfer to a deep, microwaveable bowl. Microwave on high for 2 minutes, stir and microwave for up to an additional 1 minute depending on consistency required.
Microwave
Add 1/4 cup of McCann's Steel Cut Oats to 3/4 cup of water in a deep 3-4 pint bowl ( the size of the bowl is important as it must be large enough to allow the oats to bubble up without spilling over). Cook on high for 5 minutes, stir, return to microwave and cook on high for a further 3 minutes.
Cut Corners
Place the oats, natural or pre-toasted in a food processor. A few turns of the metal blade will break up the grains and reduce the cooking time by at least 5 minutes.
Irish Porridge
Into four cups of briskly boiling water sprinkle one cup of oatmeal, stirring well. When the porridge is smooth and beginning to thicken, reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Traditionally served with fresh buttermilk, Irish porridge is also good with milk or cream and brown sugar or honey, or with butter.
Rice Cooker method
For 2 - 3 servings
Add 1 cup dry steel cut oats to 2 cups + 3oz water (19 oz.) Set rice cooker to the oatmeal (porridge) setting, and also use the pre-washed rice setting. (Using the pre-washed rice setting along with the porridge setting, minimizes the tendency of the oats to boil over*.)
Stir the oats halfway through the cooking cycle.
*Another option for avoiding boilover: let the oats soak overnight, then there is less "free" water to boil over.