Steel cut oats and rolled oats are both made from whole oat groats, but they have slightly different cooking times and textures. Here’s a quick overview of the main differences between steel cut and rolled oats:
Cooking Time
Steel cut oats take longer to cook than rolled oats. Steel cut oats usually take around 30 minutes to cook while rolled oats only take about 5 minutes.
Texture
Steel cut oats have a chewy, coarser texture compared to rolled oats. Rolled oats have a softer, creamier texture because they have been steamed and rolled into thinner flakes.
Nutrition
Steel cut and rolled oats have very similar nutritional profiles. They are both whole grain foods high in fiber, protein, B vitamins, and minerals like manganese, selenium, and iron.
Taste
The different textures give steel cut and rolled oats slightly different flavors. Some people find steel cut oats have a more robust, grainier flavor compared to the milder taste of rolled oats.
Uses
Both types of oats work well for breakfast cereals, oatmeal, granola bars, and baked goods. Steel cut oats can be used in savory dishes too like pilafs or stuffed peppers because they hold their shape better when cooked.
Convenience
Rolled oats are often considered more convenient than steel cut oats since they cook up much faster. Steel cut oats require more planning since the longer cook time means you can’t make them as quickly in the morning.
Price
Steel cut oats tend to be slightly more expensive than rolled oats. Steel cutting the oats into small pieces is a more intensive mechanical process.
Substitutions
Steel cut and rolled oats are not always interchangeable in recipes. For breakfast porridge, you can usually substitute an equal amount of rolled for steel cut oats and vice versa. The cooking time will vary though. In baked goods, steel cut oats may give a coarser texture.
Storage
Both types of oats will keep for several months when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry pantry. Steel cut oats may retain their freshness slightly longer thanks to their minimal processing.
Conclusion
While steel cut and rolled oats originate from the same whole oat groat, their different processing methods give them distinct textures, cooking times, and subtle flavor differences. Both provide the nutritional benefits of whole grains, so choice comes down to your taste and texture preferences as well as cooking convenience.