Avena Colombiana (Colombian Oatmeal Drink)

🧂 Ingredients

• 100g Rolled oats (quick-cooking or old-fashioned)(Rolled oats will give a creamier texture than instant oats.)
• 1 liter Whole milk(Can substitute with a mix of milk and water, or a non-dairy milk for a different flavor profile.)
• 100g Granulated sugar(Adjust to your desired sweetness. Can substitute with other sweeteners like piloncillo or honey.)
• 2 Cinnamon sticks(Preferably large sticks for maximum flavor infusion.)
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract(Pure vanilla extract is recommended for best flavor.)
• 250ml Water(Optional, to help achieve desired consistency during blending.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats, milk, and cinnamon sticks. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
2. 2

   Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the oats are tender and have softened, about 15-20 minutes. The mixture will thicken as the oats cook.

   ⏱️ 15-20 minutes
3. 3

   Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully remove and discard the cinnamon sticks. Stir in the granulated sugar and vanilla extract until fully dissolved.

   ⏱️ 2 minutes
4. 4

   Transfer the oat mixture to a blender. Add the optional 250ml of water to help achieve a smoother consistency. Blend on high speed until completely smooth and creamy, about 2-3 minutes. If you prefer a very smooth drink, you can strain it through a fine-mesh sieve.

   ⏱️ 3-5 minutes
5. 5

   Pour the blended avena into a pitcher or airtight container. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or until thoroughly chilled. The drink will thicken further as it chills.

   ⏱️ 1 hour minimum
6. 6

   Serve the Avena Colombiana cold. Stir well before serving as it may separate slightly. Garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.

   ⏱️ N/A

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓For a smoother, more liquid consistency, add more milk or water during blending.
• ✓This drink is a popular street food in Colombia, often served warm or cold.
• ✓Avena Colombiana is quite filling and can be a good meal replacement or a substantial snack.

🔄 Variations

• For a thicker consistency, use less milk or water during blending, or add a tablespoon of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with a little cold water) during the last few minutes of cooking in step 2.
• Add a few whole cloves along with the cinnamon sticks in step 1 for a more complex spice profile.
• Sweeten with piloncillo (unrefined whole cane sugar) for a more traditional flavor.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving