Oat water, or agua de avena, is a light drink made by soaking rolled oats, rinsing them, and blending them with water and a little honey, then flavoring it with a cinnamon stick and a few drops of vanilla and chilling it. It takes 10 minutes of preparation, plus 6 hours of soaking, and makes about 8 glasses.
It is a popular homemade drink in Latin America, often used as part of a balanced diet thanks to its fiber, and it can be enjoyed chilled at any time of day.
How to Make Oat Water?
Oat water needs just a few easy ingredients, oats, water, cinnamon, vanilla, and an optional natural sweetener such as honey. The oats are soaked, rinsed, blended with the water until smooth, and flavored with cinnamon and vanilla as they chill.
Nutritional Information
Each glass of oat water (250 ml) contains approximately 45 kcal, 1.5 g of protein, 1 g of fat, 0 mg of cholesterol, 8 g of carbohydrates, 1 g of sugars, 1 g of fiber, and 5 mg of sodium. These values are estimates and may vary depending on ingredients and portion sizes.
Homemade Oat Water Recipe
Preparation: 10 minutes (plus 6 hours soaking)
Servings: About 8 glasses
Ingredients
- 2 liters (8 cups) of water
- 1 cup (90 g) of rolled oats
- 1 cinnamon stick
- A few drops of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of honey (optional)
Instructions
- Place the oats in a large bowl and cover with water. Soak for about 6 hours, then discard the soaking water and rinse with fresh water.
- In a blender, add the soaked oats, the 2 liters of water, and the honey if using, and blend for two minutes until completely smooth.
- Pour into a pitcher, add a few drops of vanilla and the cinnamon stick for flavor, and refrigerate until cold.
Additional Tips
Why soak the oats
Soaking softens the oat flakes, makes them easier to digest, and reduces their phytic acid content, so the drink is smoother and lighter.
Strain for a lighter drink
If you prefer a thinner drink, strain it through a fine sieve or cloth after blending.
Let the cinnamon infuse
The longer the cinnamon stick rests in the pitcher, the stronger its flavor.
| Original ingredient | Substitute | Ratio | Flavor note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Honey | No sweetener | Omit | Lightest option |
| Cinnamon stick | Lemon zest | 1 strip | Fresher, citrusy |
| Rolled oats | Instant oats | 1:1 | Smoother, less body |
| Water | Half water, half milk | 1 liter each | Creamier, more calories |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long should I soak the oats?
About 6 hours, covered with water in a large bowl. Then discard the soaking water and rinse the oats with fresh water before blending.
2. Does oat water replace a weight loss diet?
No. It can be part of a balanced diet, but it is not a substitute for a varied, balanced way of eating. Before making any significant change to your diet, consult a health professional.
3. Can I make it without honey?
Yes, the honey is optional. You can leave it out or use another natural sweetener. The base flavor comes from the cinnamon stick and the vanilla.
4. How long does it keep?
Keep it in a covered pitcher in the fridge for up to 2 days and stir before serving, since the oats settle at the bottom.
Benefits of Oat Water
Oats are rich in fiber, especially soluble beta glucan, which helps you feel full longer, supports healthy digestion, and helps keep blood sugar steady. Drunk as part of a balanced diet, oat water is a light, hydrating option.
Oat Water in the Morning
Many people like to drink oat water first thing in the morning, as a light, refreshing start to the day before breakfast.
Did You Know?
Although oat water offers health benefits, it should never replace a balanced, varied diet, and it is best to consult a health professional before making significant changes to what you eat.
How to adapt this recipe to a vegan or vegetarian version?
How to adapt this recipe to a gluten-free version?
How to adapt this recipe to a keto (ketogenic) version?
Recommended
- Chilean Oatmeal and Coconut Cookies Recipe
- Golden Milk Recipe
- Chilean Malt with Toasted Flour Recipe
- Chilean Stewed Apples with Cinnamon Recipe
