Oatmeal 102

     Quick cooking oats are frequently referred to as "instant" but in reality they are really only Old Fashioned oats that have been coarsely chopped into smaller pieces to allow them to cook more quickly than regular oatmeal, so says the website Bakingbites.com.  Usually they're about one quarter to one third the size of a regular rolled oat flake.  



     You can turn regular rolled oats into the quick cooking variety yourself by pulsing them a few times in the food processor to break them up.

    According to Taste of Home magazine quick cooking oats offer a more delicate texture to baked goods and desserts.  But if you are looking for a heartier texture in your oatmeal cookies, use Old Fashioned oats instead.



Here are two ways to prepare quick cooking oats:

Stovetop

Bring 1 cup of water (or nonfat or low-fat milk) and a pinch of salt (if desired) to a boil in a small saucepan.  Stir in 1/2 cup instant oats and reduce heat to medium; cook for 1 minute. Remove from the heat, cover and let stand for 2 to 3 minutes.

Microwave

Combine 1 cup water (or nonfat or low-fat milk), 1/2 cup instant oats and a pinch of salt (if desired) in a 2 cup microwavable bowl.  Microwave on High for 1 1/2 to 2 minutes.  Stir before serving.