Quick Answer
Yes, you can absolutely put Cream of Wheat in a blender. Blending Cream of Wheat is a great way to get a smooth, lump-free consistency. Simply cook the Cream of Wheat according to package directions, let it cool slightly, then transfer it to a blender. Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until smooth and creamy. Blending can help break up any lumps in the cereal.
Blending Cooked Cream of Wheat
Cream of Wheat is a breakfast porridge made from wheat farina. It has a creamy, porridge-like texture when prepared with boiling water or milk. However, if not stirred constantly while cooking, Cream of Wheat can develop clumps or lumps. This is why many people prefer to blend Cream of Wheat after cooking to get a perfectly smooth texture.
Here are step-by-step instructions for blending cooked Cream of Wheat:
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Cream of Wheat
– 2 cups water, milk, or a combination
– Pinch of salt
– Sweetener like brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup to taste (optional)
– Spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water and/or milk to a boil in a saucepan. Slowly whisk in the Cream of Wheat until no lumps remain.
2. Add a pinch of salt. Reduce heat to low and cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes until thickened.
3. Remove from heat and stir in any sweetener or spices (if using). Let cool for 5 minutes.
4. Transfer the cooked Cream of Wheat to a blender.
5. Blend on high speed for 1-2 minutes until completely smooth and creamy. Scrape down sides as needed.
6. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of milk to thin to desired consistency.
7. Enjoy the perfectly smooth Cream of Wheat!
The key is to let the Cream of Wheat cool just slightly before blending. Blending it hot can lead to a runny or splattering mess. Letting it sit for 5 minutes helps thicken it up while still being cool enough to blend smoothly.
Always use caution when blending hot liquids and start on a low speed. Blending too long can also cause separation, so blend only until smooth and creamy.
Benefits of Blending Cream of Wheat
There are a few benefits to blending Cream of Wheat after cooking:
Smoother Texture
Blending eliminates any stubborn lumps or chunks, giving you flawlessly smooth porridge. No more biting into unwanted clumps!
More Creaminess
The blending action aerates the cereal, whipping in air to achieve a lighter, creamier texture.
Easier Digestion
The mechanical action of the blender partially breaks down the grains on a molecular level, making it easier for our bodies to digest.
Better Flavor Distribution
Blending thoroughly incorporates any added sweeteners, spices, or extras into the cereal for evenly distributed flavors in each bite.
Custom Texture
You can blend to your desired consistency, whether you like it thick and spoon-coating or thin and drinkable.
Easy Cleanup
Transferring the cooked cereal to a blender means there’s just the blender pitcher to clean instead of a porridge-caked saucepan.
Tips for Blending Cream of Wheat
Follow these tips for the best results when blending Cream of Wheat:
– Let it cool slightly before blending so it doesn’t splatter or get runny. 5 minutes is usually enough time.
– Start on low speed to prevent splashing, then increase to high.
– Use short blending times, stopping to scrape down the sides as needed. Over-blending can cause thinness.
– Add milk, water, or cream to thin out if it gets too thick.
– For savory Cream of Wheat, stir in cheese, herbs, or veggies after blending.
– Make a big batch and freeze individual portions for quick breakfasts.
– Rinse blender immediately after use since porridge can stick when dry.
Can You Make Instant Cream of Wheat in a Blender?
While stovetop Cream of Wheat works beautifully blended, you may wonder if you can make instant Cream of Wheat right in the blender.
The answer is yes! Here is a simple method for making instant Cream of Wheat in a blender:
Ingredients:
– 1 packet (1/3 cup) instant Cream of Wheat
– 1 cup milk, water, or combination
– Pinch of salt
– Sweetener and spices to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the instant Cream of Wheat, liquid, and salt to a blender.
2. Blend on low at first, then increase to high speed for 1 minute. Stop and scrape sides as needed.
3. Continue blending until hot and thickened, about 3-5 minutes total.
4. Stir in any sweetener or spices once thickened.
5. Enjoy immediately.
The friction from the blender blades heats up the cereal and liquid to cook it, resulting in thickened porridge in mere minutes.
This allows you to customize the flavor easily by blending in mix-ins like cocoa powder, peanut butter, or protein powder.
What Can You Add to Blended Cream of Wheat?
One benefit of blending Cream of Wheat is it makes it easy to stir in mix-in ingredients for customized flavors and textures. Here are some delicious mix-ins to try:
Fruits:
– Bananas – Mash ripe bananas into the porridge.
– Berries – Stir in fresh or frozen berries.
– Apples – Dice apples and blend into the cereal.
– Dates – Dice and blend in for sweetness.
Nuts and seeds:
– Almonds – Toast slivered almonds to sprinkle on top.
– Peanut butter – Swirl in peanut butter before blending.
– Flaxseed – Add ground flax for healthy fiber.
– Chia seeds – Stir in chia seeds after blending.
Spices and extracts:
– Cinnamon – Add a dash of cinnamon for a comforting flavor.
– Vanilla – Blend in vanilla extract for a subtle sweetness.
– Nutmeg – A pinch of nutmeg enhances creamy cereals.
– Cardamom – Complement the Cream of Wheat with aromatic cardamom.
Sweeteners:
– Brown sugar – Fold in brown sugar or raw sugar for some sweetness.
– Honey – Drizzle in some honey while blending.
– Maple syrup – Maple pairs perfectly with hot cereals.
– Jam – Swirl your favorite jam into the porridge.
Dairy and milks:
– Milk – Use milk when cooking the Cream of Wheat for extra creaminess.
– Yogurt – Stir in a dollop of yogurt before serving.
– Cheese – Add shredded cheddar or crumbled feta.
– Coconut milk – Use canned coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Let your imagination run wild with unique flavor combos in your blended Cream of Wheat!
How to Store Blended Cream of Wheat
Properly storing blended Cream of Wheat is important for food safety and preserving texture. Here are some tips:
– Let cool completely before storing. Do not store warm blended cereal.
– Transfer to an airtight container or jar. Smooth the top to minimize exposure to air.
– Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
– Label container with date blended.
– Do not freeze blended Cream of Wheat, as texture will degrade when thawing.
– For longer storage, freeze unblended, cooked Cream of Wheat in portions, then defrost and blend before eating.
– Reheat blended Cream of Wheat over low heat on the stovetop or microwave until hot, stirring frequently. Add milk or cream to thin, if desired.
Following proper storage methods will keep blended Cream of Wheat fresh and safe to enjoy all week long. The creamy texture holds up well for several days.
Common Questions about Cream of Wheat in a Blender
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about blending Cream of Wheat:
Can you blend Cream of Wheat hot?
It’s best to let the cooked Cream of Wheat cool for 5 minutes before blending. Blending it hot can cause splattering issues.
Is blended Cream of Wheat good for baby food?
Yes, blended Cream of Wheat makes a nutrient-dense baby food when thinned with breastmilk or formula. Only blend small batches since it spoils more quickly for babies.
Can you blend in milk instead of water?
Definitely! Using milk instead of water when cooking the cereal gives extra creaminess when blended.
Does blending destroy nutrients in Cream of Wheat?
Minimal nutrients are lost when blending. Any vitamin degradation from heat exposure during cooking is more significant.
Can you blend in raw eggs for protein?
Raw eggs are not recommended due to potential salmonella risk. Cook eggs separately before folding into blended cereal.
Is blended Cream of Wheat gluten-free?
Yes, Cream of Wheat is certified gluten-free by the Gluten Intolerance Group. Always check labels to confirm gluten-free status.
Can you use a high-powered blender like a Vitamin?
Yes, high-powered blenders work great. Just don’t blend for too long or the cereal can get gummy.
Conclusion
Blending Cream of Wheat unlocks a smoother, creamier, lump-free cereal that’s easy to customize with mix-ins. Simply cook the Cream of Wheat, let it cool slightly, then blend for 1-2 minutes until smooth. Be sure to store blended cereal properly in the refrigerator and enjoy within 3-4 days. With this easy cooking hack, you’ll never have to choke down clumpy Cream of Wheat again!