Indian Overnight Oats Inspired by Kulfi Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a creamy, flavorful breakfast that you can prepare the night before, these Indian Overnight Oats inspired by the rich kulfi dessert are perfect. The combination of aromatic cardamom, saffron, and crunchy nuts transforms simple oats into a luxurious and nourishing start to your day.

A white bowl holds a thick, creamy soup filled with small pasta shells and chunks of vegetables. The soup's light beige color shows a smooth texture with tiny herbs scattered throughout. On top, there are yellow corn kernels, a few chopped nuts, and small purple flower petals spread evenly as garnish. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with soft lighting highlighting the soup’s warm, comforting look. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • ½ cup rolled oats
  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • A pinch of saffron strands
  • 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios
  • 1 tablespoon chopped almonds
  • 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Warm the milk to about 110°F (43°C) and stir in the saffron and ground cardamom. Let it steep for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors.
  2. Step 2: In a jar or bowl, combine the rolled oats and chia seeds if using.
  3. Step 3: Pour the saffron-cardamom infused milk over the oats. Add honey, rose water, and vanilla extract, then mix well to combine.
  4. Step 4: Cover the mixture and refrigerate overnight or for at least 6 hours to allow the oats to soften and flavors to meld.
  5. Step 5: Before serving, stir the oats gently to combine any settled layers.
  6. Step 6: Top with the chopped pistachios, almonds, or your preferred nuts and dried fruits for added texture and flavor.
  7. Step 7: Serve chilled. If the oats are too thick, add a splash of milk to loosen the consistency. Garnish with extra saffron strands if desired.

Tips & Variations

  • Use whole rolled oats instead of quick oats for the best texture and creaminess.
  • Steeping saffron in warm milk enhances both its flavor and vibrant color.
  • Adjust the sweetness to your preference by adding more or less honey or maple syrup.
  • Add chia seeds for extra thickness and nutritional benefits.
  • Use fresh or lightly toasted nuts to add a satisfying crunch to the oats.
  • Avoid substituting water for milk to maintain the creamy, rich texture typical of kulfi-inspired dishes.

Storage

Store leftover overnight oats covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Give it a good stir before serving, and add extra milk if it has thickened too much. This breakfast is best enjoyed chilled and fresh but can be reheated gently if preferred warm.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with creamy oatmeal topped with bright yellow mango pieces, a few deep red flower petals, white almond slices, and small brown nut bits. The oatmeal has a smooth, thick texture with visible grains throughout. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface with soft lighting highlighting the fresh toppings and creamy oats. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of oats for this recipe?

Yes, while whole rolled oats provide the best creamy texture, you can use steel-cut or quick oats. Keep in mind that steel-cut oats will require longer soaking time, and quick oats may become very soft and mushy.

Is it necessary to use saffron and cardamom?

These spices give the dish its distinctive Indian kulfi-inspired flavor, but you can omit them if you don’t have them on hand. The oats will still be delicious, just less aromatic and exotic.

Print

Indian Overnight Oats Inspired by Kulfi Recipe

This Irresistible Indian Overnight Oats recipe is a creamy, kulfi-inspired breakfast that combines aromatic cardamom, saffron, and crunchy nuts for a nourishing and flavorful start to your day. Prepared ahead of time, it offers a luxurious twist on traditional overnight oats with rich Indian flavors.

  • Author: lina
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 10 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x
  • Category: Breakfast
  • Method: No-Cook
  • Cuisine: Indian fusion
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

Overnight Oats Base

  • ½ cup rolled oats
  • 1 tablespoon chia seeds (optional)

Infused Milk Mixture

  • 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cardamom
  • A pinch of saffron strands
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 1 teaspoon rose water (optional)
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Toppings

  • 1 tablespoon chopped pistachios
  • 1 tablespoon chopped almonds

Instructions

  1. Warm the Milk: Heat the milk to about 110°F (43°C), then stir in a pinch of saffron strands and ground cardamom. Let this mixture steep for 5 minutes to infuse the flavors and develop a rich color.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients: In a jar or bowl, add the rolled oats and chia seeds if using. These provide texture and extra nutrition to your overnight oats.
  3. Mix Milk and Sweeteners: Pour the saffron and cardamom infused milk over the oats and chia seeds. Add honey or maple syrup along with rose water and vanilla extract if you choose to use them, then mix everything well to combine.
  4. Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the bowl or jar tightly and refrigerate for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the oats to soak up the milk and flavors, creating a creamy texture.
  5. Stir Before Serving: Give the oats a gentle stir to evenly distribute the soaked oats and liquids, ensuring a smooth consistency.
  6. Add Toppings: Sprinkle chopped pistachios and almonds or your choice of nuts and dried fruits over the top for crunch and enhanced flavor.
  7. Serve and Garnish: Serve the oats chilled. If the mixture is too thick, add a little more milk to loosen it. Garnish with extra saffron strands if desired for a beautiful presentation.

Notes

  • Use whole rolled oats rather than quick oats for the best texture.
  • Steep saffron in warm milk to maximize flavor and vibrant color.
  • Adjust sweetness to your preference with honey or maple syrup.
  • Add chia seeds to increase thickness and nutritional value.
  • Use fresh or lightly toasted nuts to add enjoyable crunch.
  • Avoid substituting water for milk to maintain the creamy, rich texture of the oats.

Keywords: overnight oats, Indian breakfast, kulfi inspired, cardamom oats, saffron oats, healthy breakfast, make ahead oats, creamy oats

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