Indian Overnight Oats with Cardamom and Pistachios
Indian Overnight Oats with Cardamom and Pistachios is a comforting and exotic breakfast combining creamy oats soaked overnight with aromatic cardamom and crunchy pistachios. This nutritious recipe offers a fragrant, spicy sweetness balanced by natural honey or maple syrup, making it a delicious, wholesome morning meal that’s easy to prepare and customizable to your preferences.
- Author: Nina
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 6 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: No-cook (Refrigerate Overnight)
- Cuisine: Indian-inspired
- Diet: Gluten Free, Vegetarian, Optional Vegan
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup milk or plant-based milk (almond, oat, coconut, etc.)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
- 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 cup chopped pistachios
Optional Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- Fresh fruits such as diced mango or berries, as desired
Optional Variations
- Pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg (for extra spice)
- Toasted coconut flakes or sunflower seeds (for added crunch)
- Scoop of protein powder (to boost protein content)
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a clean mixing bowl or jar, add 1 cup rolled oats, 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom, 1 tablespoon chia seeds (if using), and a pinch of salt. Stir together to blend the spices evenly with the oats.
- Add Liquids: Pour in 1 cup milk or plant-based milk and 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup. If using Greek yogurt (1/4 cup), fold it in now to create a rich, creamy texture. Mix everything until well combined.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the container tightly and place it in the fridge for at least 6 hours or overnight. This allows the oats to soften and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add Pistachios and Serve: Before serving, stir the oats gently. Top with 1/4 cup chopped pistachios for a satisfying crunch. Add fresh fruit or extra spices if desired, then enjoy your wholesome breakfast!
Notes
- Use fresh cardamom pods ground at home for more intense aroma and flavor.
- If adding chia seeds, soak them separately beforehand to avoid clumping and ensure smooth texture.
- Start with less sweetener and adjust after tasting for balanced sweetness.
- Lightly toast pistachios before topping to enhance nuttiness and crunch.
- Add extra milk in the morning if the oats are too thick to achieve your preferred creaminess.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free when using certified gluten-free oats.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and replace honey with maple syrup.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing is not recommended, as texture may suffer upon thawing.
- To enjoy warm oats, reheat gently in the microwave for 30-60 seconds with a splash of milk.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 recipe (approx. 1 cup)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 50mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 5mg
Keywords: overnight oats, cardamom, pistachios, Indian spices, healthy breakfast, gluten free, vegan option