Celebrate Oatmeal Day: A Comforting Classic with Endless Possibilities

Did you know that 29th October is National Oatmeal Day? 

While oatmeal might be more associated with American kitchens, here in the UK we know it better as porridge – a wholesome, hearty dish that has been a staple for centuries. 

Whether you enjoy yours in a steaming bowl on a frosty morning or use oats in baking, Oatmeal Day is the perfect excuse to celebrate this versatile grain.

Why Oatmeal Deserves Its Own Day

Oatmeal isn’t just a comfort food – it’s a nutritional powerhouse. Oats are naturally high in fibre, which supports digestion and helps you feel full for longer. 

They’re also rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a brilliant choice for anyone looking to start the day on a healthy note. Studies have even shown that oats can help reduce cholesterol levels and support heart health.

The Many Ways to Enjoy Oatmeal

One of the best things about oats is their versatility. Here are a few delicious ideas for Oatmeal Day:

Classic Porridge – Cooked with milk or water and topped with a drizzle of honey, a spoonful of jam, or a sprinkle of cinnamon.

Overnight Oats – Prep them the night before with yoghurt, fruit, and nuts for a grab-and-go breakfast.

Baked Oats – A trend that’s gone viral on TikTok, these are more like a cake than a breakfast!

Flapjacks – A British teatime favourite made with oats, golden syrup, and butter.

Savoury Oats – Try them with a soft-boiled egg, cheese, and herbs for a warming lunch.

Oatmeal Beyond the Bowl

Oats aren’t just for eating. Did you know they’re often used in skincare? Their soothing properties make them a common ingredient in bath soaks and lotions, particularly for sensitive skin.

Celebrate Oatmeal Day in Style

Here are a few simple ways you can mark the occasion:

Try a new oatmeal recipe you’ve never made before.

Swap your usual breakfast for porridge and experiment with toppings.

Bake a batch of flapjacks to share with family, friends, or colleagues.

Share your oatmeal creations on social media with the hashtag #OatmealDay.

Final Oaty Thoughts

Oatmeal Day is more than just about celebrating a humble grain – it’s about embracing comfort, health, and creativity in the kitchen. From traditional porridge to indulgent bakes, oats are endlessly adaptable and always nourishing.

So, this 29th October, raise a spoon (or fork!) to oatmeal – and enjoy every warming, wholesome mouthful.

Simple & Tasty Refrigerator Porridge with Oats, Cinnamon, Honey & Greek Yogurt

Many years ago late one evening I put some cold milk into a bowl of raw oats, intending to eat them right away. 

However I realised that I was so tired that I'd rather go to bed than eat, so I put the bowl into the fridge for safe keeping.

The next morning I remembered the bowl of oats, removed it from the fridge and found that I had accidentally invented refrigerator porridge before it had become a general breakfast staple. 

Over the years I have changed, tweaked and improved my recipe and I can say if you're looking for a no-fuss, make-ahead breakfast that's both wholesome and delicious, refrigerator porridge (also known as overnight oats) is the way to go. 

This simple recipe combines hearty oats, creamy Greek yogurt, fragrant cinnamon, and a touch of honey for natural sweetness — all ready to grab straight from the fridge in the morning.

Whether you're rushing out the door, enjoying a slow start to the day, or need a refreshing post-workout snack, this porridge ticks every box. Plus, it's endlessly customisable!

Ingredients (Serves 1)

50g rolled oats

100g Greek yogurt (plain or vanilla)

120ml milk (dairy or plant-based – your choice)

1 tsp honey (or more to taste)

½ tsp ground cinnamon or try ground ginger, too

Optional toppings: fresh berries, sliced banana, chopped nuts, seeds, a drizzle of nut butter

Method

Mix the base

In a jar, bowl or airtight container, stir together the oats, Greek yogurt, milk, honey and cinnamon until fully combined.

Chill overnight

Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight. The oats will soften and absorb the liquid, creating a creamy, pudding-like texture.

Add your toppings

In the morning, give the porridge a quick stir. Add your favourite toppings and enjoy straight from the fridge — no cooking required!

Tips & Variations

Make it vegan: Use plant-based yogurt and swap honey for maple syrup or agave nectar.

Boost the protein: Stir in a spoonful of chia seeds or a scoop of protein powder before refrigerating.

Seasonal swaps: Try adding grated apple or pear in autumn, or a handful of fresh berries in summer.

Why You'll Love It

This refrigerator porridge is:

✔ Naturally sweetened

✔ High in protein and fibre

✔ Ideal for meal prep

✔ Customisable for any season

And best of all — no hob, no fuss, just grab and go.

Do you make overnight oats at home? Share your favourite combinations in the comments or tag me on Instagram with your creations!

3Bears Oats, now hitting breakfast tables in the UK

German oat brand, 3Bears recognised for its delicious, porridge, overnight oats and pocket porridge bars is launching into the UK. 

The oat revolution has officially arrived in the UK! Introducing 3Bears, the brainchild of dynamic husband-and-wife duo Tim and Caro, who have mastered the art of a delicious breakfast since their inception in Germany. 

Tim’s passion for extreme sports, including marathons, IronMan challenges, and long-distance cycling, combined with two kids and a busy family life, meant that when creating 3Bears, it was important for them to have a product that would be a quick, substantial meal and work for everyone. 

With a commitment to clean ingredients and a sprinkling of fun, 3Bears - yes, it's named for the iconic and famous fairy tale - is here to transform your mornings - one Delicious oat at a time.

With accolades pouring in from German breakfasters, 3Bears has established itself as the industry leader in oat-based breakfasts. 

Their B Corp status underscores their absolute dedication to social responsibility and environmental sustainability. And now, with football superstar Harry Kane joining the team, demand for these tasty oats has surged, paving the way for their exciting launch onto UK breakfast tables!

Whether you're a breakfast purist or an extremely busy parent, there's something magical about 3Bears' offerings. What's in their core range? This includes:-

Overnight Oats

An absolute game-changer for those who want convenience without compromising on taste! 3Bears have created a secret blend of different oats for that perfectly creamy texture. With flavours inspired by customer cravings including Splendid Strawberry, Banana Split, Iced Coffee, Golden Mango and Coconut Cocoa. 

They are super easy to make, all you need do is just add the milk of your choice, pop in the fridge the night before and in the morning you will have the perfect, yummy cold breakfast. 

Harry Kane & 3Bears

Each bowl is free from added sugars and artificial ingredients—just pure goodness that sets you up for an energetic day.

Porridge

Not too big and not too small—these oats are just right! 3Bears’ recipe developers have fine-tuned the ideal oat for a bowl that boasts a satisfying bite and a smooth finish.

Available in a range of delightful flavours including Original, Finest Cocoa, Apple & Cinnamon, Triple Berry, Banana & Poppy Seed, Fruity Coconut, this porridge is anything but boring!

Pocket Porridge

Born from Tim and Caro’s need for a quick yet nutritious meal on-the-go as busy parents, Pocket Porridge is the perfect partner for your hectic day. Packed with the same incredible ingredients and ethos as their other products, this convenient option promises to keep you fuelled and focused. The bars come in six delicious flavours including Triple Berry, Triple Nut, Splendid Strawberry, Finest Cocoa, Banana & Poppy Seed, Apple & Cinnamon. 

All of the products have short, easy-to-read ingredient lists, are rich in fibre, free from added sugars, and made with love and care in recyclable packaging. 

Co-founder Caroline shares her excitement: “I can't express how thrilled we are to introduce our delicious porridge to the UK. With Harry Kane as our investor and brand ambassador, this is more than just an expansion; it’s a heartfelt venture into a market that we truly believe will resonate with our values.”

3Bears Overnight Oats, Porridge, and Pocket Porridge are available online at https://3bears.co.uk.

Exploring Smug Dairy and Oat Milk Cheese Blend: A New Era for Cheese Lovers

Yesterday afternoon I was making a shopping trip to our nearest Morrisons supermarket. 

It was the usual day-to-day type of shopping list, lard,cooking oil, strong white bread flour, yeast and the like.

But I then saw something that I decided to add to our shopping basket. A block of Smug dairy and oat milk blended cheese. It tastes absolutely delicious (as it happens, on a cheese sandwich made with the strong white bread flour we bought!) so I decided to write this blogpost about Smug.

In a world where dietary choices are becoming more varied and inclusive, innovation in the food industry continues to surprise and delight us. 

One of the most exciting recent developments in the dairy world is the rise of blended cheeses, combining the creamy richness of traditional dairy with plant-based alternatives. 

Smug Dairy and Oat Milk Cheese Blend is a prime example of this delicious evolution, offering something fresh and unique for cheese lovers who want the best of both worlds.

In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at Smug’s dairy and oat milk cheese blend and why it’s making waves among those seeking a balance between indulgence and conscious eating.

1. What Is Smug Dairy and Oat Milk Cheese Blend?

Smug has developed a cheese that blends traditional dairy with oat milk, creating a product that delivers the creamy texture and richness associated with classic cheeses, but with a twist. By incorporating oat milk, Smug’s cheese blend provides a lighter, plant-forward alternative without compromising on the indulgence of dairy. This fusion of dairy and oats offers a modern, versatile option that caters to a wide range of dietary preferences.

2. Why Oat Milk?

Oat milk has been taking the food world by storm, largely due to its environmental benefits and creamy consistency. Compared to other plant-based milks like almond or soya, oat milk is more sustainable, requiring less water to produce and typically creating less strain on the environment. Oat milk is also naturally free of common allergens, such as nuts and soy, making it a more inclusive choice for those with dietary restrictions. It also tastes pretty good, too!

When incorporated into a cheese blend, oat milk brings a subtle sweetness and light texture, complementing the creaminess of dairy while also softening its richness. The result is a cheese that is easier on the stomach for those who may have minor lactose sensitivities but still want to enjoy the pleasures of cheese.

3. The Flavour Profile

One of the standout features of Smug’s dairy and oat milk blend is its sophisticated flavour profile. The cheese maintains the familiar tang of traditional dairy, but with a mellow finish thanks to the oat milk. 

It’s smooth, slightly nutty, and has a delicate sweetness that makes it highly versatile for a variety of dishes. Whether you’re adding it to a sandwich, melting it over pasta, or simply enjoying it on a cracker, the cheese delivers a satisfying and well-rounded flavour.

For those who enjoy a more refined cheeseboard, Smug’s blend pairs beautifully with both savoury and sweet accompaniments, such as caramelised onions, figs, or even a drizzle of honey.

4. Health Benefits

Beyond the delicious taste, Smug’s dairy and oat milk blend offers some health advantages. Oat milk is high in fibre, particularly beta-glucan, which has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, by incorporating oat milk, the cheese blend is slightly lower in fat and calories than traditional cheeses, making it a lighter option for those looking to indulge more mindfully.

For individuals who are not fully lactose intolerant but experience discomfort with high-lactose products, the combination of dairy and oat milk can offer a more digestible option, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of dairy without as much heaviness.

5. A More Sustainable Choice

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important factor for consumers, and Smug’s oat milk and dairy cheese blend is a step in the right direction. By blending dairy with a plant-based alternative, Smug helps reduce the environmental impact typically associated with cheese production, particularly in terms of water use and greenhouse gas emissions.

While fully plant-based cheeses are undoubtedly a great choice for those seeking to minimise their environmental footprint, Smug’s cheese blend offers a thoughtful middle ground for people who still enjoy dairy but are looking to make more sustainable choices in their diet.

6. How to Enjoy Smug’s Dairy and Oat Milk Cheese Blend

Smug’s innovative cheese blend is incredibly versatile, making it a great addition to any kitchen. Here are a few ideas for how to use it:

Melt it: This cheese blend melts beautifully, making it a great option for pizza, grilled sandwiches, or over pasta dishes like mac and cheese.

Cheeseboards: Add Smug’s cheese to your next cheeseboard for a modern twist. Pair it with nuts, fruits, and oat biscuits for a delicious mix of textures and flavours.

Salads: Crumble it over a fresh salad for a light, creamy addition that won’t overpower your greens.

Baking: Use it in savoury tarts, quiches, or pies to add richness without the heaviness of a full dairy filling.

7. Where to Find It

Smug Dairy and Oat Milk Cheese Blend is available in select supermarkets and speciality food stores. As the demand for innovative cheese alternatives grows, we’re likely to see more variations of this product become widely available.

A New Age for Cheese Lovers

Smug’s dairy and oat milk cheese blend represents a new era for cheese lovers who are seeking both indulgence and mindfulness in their eating habits. Whether you’re looking to reduce your dairy intake, experiment with plant-based products, or simply try something new, this blend is a delicious way to explore a more balanced approach to cheese. It’s not just a product for vegans or lactose-intolerant individuals; it’s for anyone who enjoys the art of cheese and appreciates thoughtful, sustainable innovation.

This Christmas, why not give your cheeseboard a modern twist with Smug Dairy and Oat Milk Cheese Blend? Your guests will want to know where you got it! 

Smug also make Salted Blended oat & Dairy butter and a Spreadable Blended oat & Dairy butter version, too.

It's available in Morrisons, Tescos and other stores.

https://smugdairy.com/products

No cook chilled porridge

No cook chilled porridge is a dish I invented myself many years ago.

Very late one evening I was pouring some cold milk into a bowl of porridge oats. I realised that I wasn't hungry after all, so I placed the bowl in the fridge and went to bed.

The next morning I remembered the bowl of oats and I took it out and took a mouthful. The result was better than anything I had ever expected. 

The oats had perfectly melded with the milk and I had inadvertently created a bowl of utterly delicious cold porridge.

The recipe is simplicity in itself.

Take one bowl of porridge oats. 

Fill to the brim with the chilled milk of your choice, dairy or non-dairy.

You can add brown sugar, honey, etc to add sweetness if you wish.

Stirring in cinnamon or mixed spice with dried mixed fruit is a good idea, but do make certain any spices you add are properly mixed throughout. The dried mixed fruits will absorb the moisture from the milk and will plump up very nicely.

You can also add sliced or ground nuts.

When the bowl of porridge is ready, place it in your fridge and leave it overnight or throughout the day until it is ready for you to eat.

Actually, you could try oat alternatives if you want to give that a try. 

You can garnish with freshly cut fruits including bananas, strawberries, etc.

(Image courtesy of  Pictavio from Pixabay)