In Malaysia, when taking into consideration a wholesome, hearty breakfast, a steaming hot bowl of oats usually comes to mind. This cereal grain is normally rolled or crushed to make oatmeals—a fibre-rich carb that’s low in fat and high in protein, nutrients, and minerals.
There are different types of oats to choose from, such as rolled, instant, and quick cooking oats, and they vary in their nutrient profiles and processing methods. This article explains the important variations between these types of oats.
Rolled Oats
Rolled oats in Malaysia are oat groats which have long gone through a steaming and flattening process. They have a milder taste and a softer texture and take much less time to make, as they are partly cooked by the manufacturer.
A bowl of rolled oats takes two to five minutes to prepare. Rolled oats can also be enjoyed with other foods like cookies, cakes, desserts, and bread.
Quick Oats
Quick oats, also known as instant cooking oats in Malaysia, are rolled oats that are processed similarly to instant-cooking oats but require less cooking time. They’re partly cooked through steaming; after which they’re rolled even thinner than old-fashioned oats.
They cook within a few minutes, have a moderate taste, and a soft, comfortable texture. Quick oats are not the same as ready-to-eat oats that come in packages and can contain things like skim milk powder, sugar, and flavouring.
Quick Cooking Rolled Oats vs. Instant Rolled Oats
Even though quick cooking rolled oats and instant rolled oats are both designed to provide a faster preparation time, there are some differences between these two types of oats. Quick cooking rolled oats are quick to cook, but instant oatmeal is meant to be quicker.
This method means they’re rolled thinner and milled finer than quick cooking rolled oats for quicker preparation. Another reason quick oats are commonly created for shorter prep time is that they’re precooked.
Apart from being rolled and milled in a particular manner, quick-cooking rolled oats and instant rolled oats vary slightly in how they’re prepared, how long they take to make, and their flavour and texture.
It may appear overwhelming at first, but their variations are clearly pretty simple. To assist you to choose the right variety, here’s the distinction between quick-cooking rolled oats and instant oats.
Cooking Rolled Quick Oats vs. Instant Oats
Quick-cooking oats are typically made to be cooked like ordinary oats in much less time. Since most instant oats are precooked, they’re made to be cooked more quickly in the microwave.
In fact, rolled oats are available in little pre-packaged, smaller boxes as opposed to the old large tin. However, instant rolled oats are exclusive due to the fact that they’re not pre-cooked, and they come in a big bag much like ordinary rolled oats.
Rolled Oats vs. Instant Oats Nutritional Value
Oats are well-known for being full of nutrients. They’re a great supply of both soluble and insoluble fibre that can help enhance your digestive system, help you feel full longer, and even help with weight loss.
They are high in protein and wholesome fats, and they actually have the highest quality amino acid stability of all of the cereal grain varieties. Eating oats can also have a good impact on your cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure.
Luckily, both quick-cook rolled oats and instant rolled oats keep their natural nutrients after processing.
All in All
All three are very healthy and have a lot of fibre, plant protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. The main thing that makes these oats different is that they are made smaller so they can be cooked faster.
Even though quick-cooking oats are great for saving time, instant rolled oats are even better especially when you’re in a rush.