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Substitutes for Oats

Common substitutes for oats are Oat Flour and Rice, with ratios below.

TextureThickenerMoisture

Substitutes (2)

  • Oat Flour

    Good fit

    1:1

    BakingSauteingFryingSlow CookSteaming

  • Rice

    Okay with tweaks

    1:1

    BakingSauteingFryingSlow CookSteamingDrinks

FAQ

What else is Oats known as?

Oats is known as rolled oats, oatmeal, groats, steel cut oats, steel-cut oats, and porridge oats.

What does Oats taste like?

Oats is light on fat richness, light on sweetness, light on bitterness, and light on umami.

What is the texture like dry?
  • Dry, firm flakes or grains with a slightly dusty feel.
  • Rolled oats are flat and flexible; steel-cut are hard and gritty.
What is the texture like when heated?
  • Soft, creamy, and slightly chewy when cooked in liquid.
  • Steel-cut oats stay more toothsome than rolled or instant.
How is Oats used in recipes?

Oats is main use is porridge, granola, and baked goods where it adds chew and mild nutty flavor. Absorbs liquid readily, so recipes often need extra milk or water. Toasting dry oats before cooking deepens flavor. Store in a sealed container away from moisture and heat; pairs well with cinnamon, honey, dried fruit, and nuts.

Does water content matter?

Oats has low water content. Doesn't add much moisture; batters may need liquid elsewhere.

Cooking methods

Works well

  • Baking

    Adds chew and nutty flavor to cookies, muffins, and quick breads. Absorbs liquid, so batters may need extra moisture.

  • Sauteing

    Toasting dry oats in a dry pan or with a little fat deepens the nutty, toasty flavor before cooking.

  • Slow Cook

    Breaks down into a soft, creamy porridge over low heat. Steel-cut oats hold more texture than rolled.

  • Steaming

    Cooks into a soft, thickened porridge. Gentle heat keeps it from scorching or clumping.

  • Drinks

    Blended or soaked oats add body and mild sweetness to smoothies and homemade oat drinks.

Methods to avoid (3)
  • Frying

    Not a frying ingredient on its own, though rolled oats can coat foods for a crisp crumb.

  • Grilling

    No direct grilling use. Can be mixed into oat-based patties or bars cooked on a grill.

  • Raw Cold

    Softens when soaked in milk or juice overnight, as in overnight oats. Stays chewy, not mushy.