Hot Cereals

Also indexed as: Oatmeal, Porridge

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Preparation, uses, and tips

Cooking procedures and times vary slightly according to the type of grain, and whether it is a regular or instant variety. Prepare hot cereal with milk or water, and follow the directions on the package. Add dried fruit, chopped walnuts, or crushed flaxseeds to hot cereal, or top cooked cereal with fresh fruit. Combine several varieties of grain for maximum flavor and nutrition. Although best known as a breakfast food, hot cereal can be enjoyed in the afternoon or evening, too.

Buying and storing tips

Hot cereals can be purchased in ready-to-cook form in packages, as well as in the bulk section of most health food or grocery stores. Store cereal in sealed glass or plastic containers, or in tightly sealed plastic bags, in a cool, dark cupboard.

Varieties

Nearly any grain can be cooked into hot cereal. Look for grits, meal, bran, germ, groats, flakes, and other forms.

Nutrition Highlights

Hot cereal (plain oatmeal, regular and quick), 1 cup (234g)
Calories: 145
Protein: 6.0g
Carbohydrate: 25g
Total Fat: 2.3g
Fiber: 4.0g
*Good source of: Thiamine (0.26mg)

*Foods that are an “excellent source” of a particular nutrient provide 20% or more of the Recommended Daily Value. Foods that are a “good source” of a particular nutrient provide between 10 and 20% of the Recommended Daily Value.