Chocolate Cardamom Espresso Oats

Oatmeal is often times regarded as a bland, boring option for breakfast- and to that I say you’re not being creative enough. Most folks see gloop, beige, flavorless grains of the mighty oat. I see a CANVAS. One that takes the flavors of any spice, condiment, or essence you inject into it.

These chocolate cardamom espresso oats are a decadent way to start your winter morning. Each bite is gooey, rich, and choclatey. I like to thank the addition of Garden of Life’s MD Plant-Based Protein, Rich Chocolate for the creamy and mouth-gluing (this is a good thing) texture. It also helps that each scoop brings extra protein and nutrients that aid in a boosted, strong immune system.

I like to say my holy trinity of toppings for oatmeal is tahini (or any nut butter you love), banana, and pomegranate seed. Add your holy trinity of topping(s), never forget a pinch of flakey sea salt, and enjoy!

Chocolate Cardamom Espresso Oats

Yield: 1 serving

Time: about 10 to 15 minutes

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cup rolled oats

• 1 cup water or milk of choice

• 1 scoop Garden of Life MD Plant-Based Protein, Rich Chocolate, optional BUT HIGHLY RECOMMENDED! Protein powder helps with texture and flavor often times.

• 1/2 tablespoon espresso/fine coffee grounds

• pinch of sea salt

• 1 1/2 tablespoon cocoa powder

• 1/8 teaspoon cardamom (add more if preferred)

• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup

• drizzle of tahini, to garnish

• sliced banana, to garnish

• pomegranate seeds, to garnish

• maple syrup, to garnish

• flakey sea salt, to garnish

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large bowl, combine the oats, espresso grounds, pinch of sea salt, and your water or milk. If using a microwave, I prefer to mix the oatmeal with water and microwave for 1 minute and 30 seconds. If using the stovetop, I prefer to use oat milk and cook the oats in a saucepan over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes.

2. Once cooked, stir in the protein powder (if you plan on using protein powder), cocoa powder, cardamom, vanilla extract, and maple syrup. Adjust seasoning per your personal preference.

3. Top the oats with your choice of desired toppings. I prefer to top mine with a drizzle of tahini, sliced banana, pomegranate seeds, a dash of espresso grounds, a drizzle of maple syrup, and flakey sea salt

4. Take a picture and dive in!