A Hot and Healthy Breakfast for Whole Grains Month

It's whole grains month, which is a great reminder that hot cereals can be hearty, delicious and healthy!

What are Hot Cereals? Hot cereals have been eaten throughout civilization in the form of porridges and gruels. Hot cereals today include cream of rice, cream of wheat, oatmeal and more.

How to Buy: Found in cartons and bags, and sometimes in bulk.

What to look for on the Label: Whole grain options such as whole oats, wheat, and barley, as well as less refined e.g. steel cut. Also opt for unsweetened varieties as you can always add your desired sweeteners (honey, cinnamon, dried fruit, berries, etc) at home.

Choices: There are lots of choices from single grains such as oatmeal to mixed blends of grains varieties include: Whole grain wheat, cracked wheat, or wheat berries; rice or wild rice, kasha (buckwheat groats), or combinations of several; cream of rye or wheat (Wheatena) or processed (Cream of Wheat). Some ancient grains like amaranth, quinoa, spelt, kamut, triticale, einkorn, also make nutritious, delicious hot breakfast cereal. For gluten-free diets, use kasha, quinoa, chia or buckwheat.

How to Use: Serve it hot for breakfast with raisins or other dried fruits, fresh fruits, nuts and milk or juice; as a snack, or as a basis for savory side dishes. Oats and other grains are good fillers and a way to increase fiber in ground turkey, beef meatloaf or burgers.

How to Store: Store bulk or packaged grains in tightly sealed containers; place in cool, dark area or cabinet.

Health Benefits: Grains provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals both naturally and enriched.

Smarter Shopping: The only difference between “instant” oatmeal and regular is the size of the grain – which is cut smaller in order to cook faster.

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