What’s the Difference Between Steel-Cut, Rolled, and Instant Oats? (2024)

FAQs

What’s the Difference Between Steel-Cut, Rolled, and Instant Oats? ›

Another thing to consider is texture. Steel-cut oats have a firmer consistency than rolled and instant oats, which have a smoother, creamy-like texture.

Steel-cut oats tend to have a firmer and chewier consistency, even when fully cooked. Rolled oats, on the other hand, have a more consistent texture, although they may still be chewier than instant or quick oats. A person can use either form of oats to prepare breakfast cereal.

Q: Are there major differences in the health benefits of steel-cut, rolled and instant oats? If so, what are they? A: Great question, and one that we get a lot. There aren't any major differences in the nutrition benefits of the three types of oats.

Steel-cut oats, also called Irish oatmeal, are the whole oat kernel that has been cut into two or three pieces using steel disks. This type of oats contains the highest amount of fiber, as it is least processed. Steel-cut oats take a little longer to cook, and result in a creamy and chewy porridge.

Alternatively, if you want to use quick-cook steel cut oats but the recipe calls for rolled oats, reduce the liquid to 3/4 cup milk of choice and the oats to 1/4 cup. Recipes using steel cut oats generally make more than a single serving. Generally, the recipe will call for 1 cup steel cut oats and 4 cups liquid.

"It's a common misconception that one type of oat is healthier than another," said Rizzo. "They are all actually identical in terms of their nutrition. The difference is how they are rolled and cut." However, Price added that since instant oats are the most processed option, they generally have salt and added sugars.

Steel cut oats are particularly great because they are only very minimally processed. To get steel cut oats, the oat kernel (called a groat) is cut into two or three pieces with a sharp blade. They are not steamed and rolled, like old fashioned (regular) oats.

Yes, it is good to eat oatmeal every day considering its nutritional profile and health benefits, including weight control and heart-healthy effect. As a breakfast food and mid-meal snack, oatmeal is potentially a better option than the majority of foods available in the market.

Steel-cut oats are an excellent soluble fiber to add to the diet that also acts as a prebiotic food. These oats are beneficial to promote anti-inflammatory integrity in the intestinal bacteria. Steel-cut oats are less processed than old fashion rolled oats and have a lower Glycemix Index.

Is there a downside to eating oatmeal? ›

Oats can cause gas and bloating. To minimize side effects, start with a low dose and increase slowly to the desired amount. Your body will get used to oat bran and the side effects will likely go away.

Simply bring oats to a low boil. Then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until tender. Lastly, add in your sweetener of choice, along with cinnamon and flaxseed. For toppings, we can't resist our go-to Berry Compote (we add chia seeds at the end for thickening + healthy fats!), hemp seeds, nut butter, and banana.

Quaker® Old Fashioned Oats are whole oats that are rolled to flatten them. Quaker® Steel Cut Oats are whole oats that have not been rolled into flakes. Instead, they are cut approximately into thirds. Quick Quaker® Oats are simply cut into slightly smaller pieces so they cook faster.

The Difference Between Steel-Cut, Rolled, & Instant Oats

The difference between steel-cut, rolled, and instant oats is simply how much the oat groat has been processed. This also results in each variety having a distinct texture and varying cook times.

The Best Oats for Overnight Oats: Old-fashioned oats, also known as rolled oats, become tender and creamy when soaked. Quick-cooking oats, which are smaller, can end up pasty and steel-cut oats, which are sturdier, stay quite firm even after soaking.

Steel-cut oats are most closely related to the original, unprocessed oat groat ( 1 ). Steel-cut oats have a coarser, chewier texture and nuttier flavor than rolled or quick oats. They also take longer to prepare, with average cooking times ranging from 15–30 minutes.

Yes, it is good to eat oatmeal every day considering its nutritional profile and health benefits, including weight control and heart-healthy effect. As a breakfast food and mid-meal snack, oatmeal is potentially a better option than the majority of foods available in the market.

You may be wondering if steel cut oats are “healthier” than other oats. Not necessarily. But they are less processed and contain more fiber than old-fashioned oats or quick cooking oats.

If you want to lose weight, Steel oats are better as they are least processed and have comparatively higher fibre content. They are also best suited for diabetic patients as the glycemic index is lower and does not spike up sugar levels. Steel-cut oats take longer to digest and thus keep you fuller for longer.

Soaking not only softens the oats, but it also makes them more tender, quicker to cook, and easier to digest. In a side-by-side comparison, we found that unsoaked oats lacked that fluffy, creamy texture soaked oats provide. So, from here on out, we'll be soaking. Once they're soaked, it's time to cook.