simple oats haleem recipe

Easy Oats Haleem is a delightful and comforting dish that’s perfect for family meals or special occasions. The simple oats haleem recipe combines chicken, lentils, and oats into a hearty one-pot meal that’s bursting with flavor. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also rich in nutrients, making it an ideal choice for those looking to enjoy a wholesome meal. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a festive gathering, this recipe will surely impress your guests and family alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total time of just 60 minutes, you can whip up this delicious meal without spending all day in the kitchen.
• Flavor Packed: The blend of spices and fresh herbs infuses each bite with rich flavors that are simply irresistible.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and lentils, plus fiber from oats, this dish is both filling and healthy.
• Versatile Dish: Great for lunch or dinner, this simple oats haleem recipe can be served on its own or with naan and salad.
• Easily Customizable: Adjust the spice levels and ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this simple oats haleem recipe, it’s essential to gather the right tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having everything ready will make the preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife
• Chopping board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy-bottomed pot: Ensures even cooking without burning the ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the mixture gently without scratching your pot.
• Knife: A sharp knife helps in efficiently chopping vegetables and herbs.

Ingredients

Easy Oats Haleem is a spiced one-pot meal made with chicken, lentils, and oats. Full of flavor and ready in about an hour.

Ingredients:
– 500 g chicken with bones or boneless options like leg pieces
– 2 onions, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup fresh coriander leaves
– 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
– 4-6 green chillies
– 4 tbsp mash dal
– 2 tbsp moong dal
– 2 tbsp masoor dal
– 1/2 cup cooking oil
– 5 tbsp ghee
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 3 cloves
– 9 peppercorns
– 2 1/2 tbsp ginger garlic paste
– 1 tbsp red chilli powder
– 1 tsp turmeric powder
– 1 1/2 tsp garam masala powder
– 1 1/2 tsp coriander powder
– 1 tbsp cumin powder
– 2-3 tsp salt (to taste)
– 3 tbsp lemon juice
– 1/2 cup oats (instant or quick-cook)
– 3-4 cups water or homemade chicken broth
– 2 chicken stock cubes
– 1/4 cup fried onions (for garnishing)
– 2 tbsp chopped coriander (for garnishing)
– 1/4 cup fried cashews (for garnishing)

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make simple oats haleem recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Lentils

Wash and soak all lentils/dals. Set aside for later use.

Step 2: Cook Onions

Fry sliced onions in hot oil until they turn golden brown. Divide them into two portions; crush half and keep the other half aside for garnishing.

Step 3: Make Herb Paste

In a blender, combine fresh coriander leaves, mint leaves, and green chillies. Blend until you achieve a smooth paste.

Step 4: Start Cooking the Chicken

Heat oil in a heavy-bottomed pot. Add whole spices like cinnamon sticks, cloves, peppercorns along with ginger garlic paste. Stir in red chilli powder, half of the salt, garam masala, and turmeric. Fry for about one minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Add Chicken

Add chicken pieces to the spice mixture along with yogurt. Sauté for a few minutes before adding crushed fried onions and green chilli paste. Mix well and sauté again.

Step 6: Cook Chicken Thoroughly

Pour in half a cup of water. Cover the pot and cook until the chicken is tender.

Step 7: Shred Chicken

Once cooked, shred the chicken into smaller pieces and return them to the pot with the spices.

Step 8: Incorporate Lentils

Add chicken stock along with soaked lentils to the mixture. Cover again and let it cook on low heat for about fifteen minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 9: Add Oats & Spices

Stir in oats along with coriander powder, cumin powder, lemon juice, and remaining salt. Mix everything well until combined.

Step 10: Final Touches

Add ghee into the pot and mix thoroughly to incorporate all flavors evenly throughout the dish.

Step 11: Garnish

Serve your simple oats haleem hot by garnishing generously with fried onions, chopped coriander, lemon slices, and fried cashews on top.

Step12: Enjoy!

Sit back and relish every bite of this hearty meal!

How to Serve simple oats haleem recipe

Serving your simple oats haleem recipe can elevate the dining experience and make it even more enjoyable. Here are some serving suggestions that enhance the flavors and presentation of this delicious dish.

With Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Coriander: Garnish with fresh chopped coriander for an added burst of flavor.
• Mint Leaves: A few sprigs of mint will bring a refreshing touch to each bowl.

Accompaniments

• Lemon Wedges: Serve with lemon wedges to squeeze over the haleem, adding a zesty kick.
• Fried Onions: Top with crispy fried onions for extra texture and flavor.

Bread Pairings

• Naan or Roti: Pair your haleem with soft naan or roti for a traditional touch.
• Pita Bread: For a lighter option, serve with warm pita bread that can be used to scoop up the haleem.

Rice Options

• Basmati Rice: Serve over fragrant basmati rice for a hearty meal option.
• Jeera Rice: A side of cumin-flavored rice complements the spices in the haleem beautifully.

How to Perfect simple oats haleem recipe

To make your simple oats haleem recipe even better, consider these helpful tips that ensure maximum flavor and texture.

• Bold Spices: Use fresh spices for a more vibrant taste; whole spices can enhance aroma.
• Soak Lentils Properly: Soaking lentils helps them cook evenly and become tender faster.
• Slow Cooking: Allowing the dish to simmer longer on low heat enhances the flavors, making it richer.
• Adjust Consistency: If it’s too thick, add more water or broth gradually for desired consistency.
• Ghee Finish: Adding ghee at the end gives the dish a rich finish and deeper flavor.
• Taste as You Go: Always taste throughout cooking to adjust seasoning to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for simple oats haleem recipe

Pairing side dishes with your simple oats haleem recipe can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Raita: A cooling yogurt-based side that balances the spices in the haleem perfectly.
2. Pickles (Achar): Spicy or tangy pickles add an exciting contrast in flavors.
3. Salad: A fresh salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions offers crunch and freshness.
4. Papadam: Crispy papadam can be enjoyed alongside for additional texture.
5. Chutney: Mint or coriander chutney provides a fresh dip option that complements the dish well.
6. Kachumber Salad: This is a refreshing mix of diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions dressed lightly with lemon juice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a simple oats haleem recipe, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking the lentils can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak lentils for at least 30 minutes to ensure they cook properly and blend well into the dish.

• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Cook until just tender, then shred it back into the mixture for optimal texture.

• Ignoring spice measurements: Using too much or too little spice can throw off the flavor balance. Measure spices carefully to achieve the right taste in your simple oats haleem recipe.

• Not blending herbs properly: If your coriander and mint paste is chunky, it may not infuse its flavor well. Blend until smooth for better incorporation into the dish.

• Rushing the cooking process: Quick cooking may result in underdeveloped flavors. Allow each ingredient time to cook through and meld together for a rich, savory taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store your simple oats haleem recipe in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Container: Use an airtight container to prevent moisture loss and preserve flavor.

Freezing simple oats haleem recipe

• Duration: You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
• Container: Use freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, removing as much air as possible before sealing.

Reheating simple oats haleem recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.

• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power in short bursts, stirring in between until hot.

• Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to avoid sticking. Stir frequently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make a vegetarian version of this simple oats haleem recipe?

Yes! Substitute chicken with vegetables like carrots and potatoes, and use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a hearty vegetarian option.

How do I enhance the flavor of my simple oats haleem recipe?

Consider adding more spices like cardamom or bay leaves during cooking. A squeeze of lemon juice before serving also brightens up the flavors beautifully.

What type of oats should I use for this recipe?

Instant or quick-cooking oats work best in this simple oats haleem recipe as they cook rapidly and blend well with other ingredients.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and simply reheat when ready to serve, allowing flavors to deepen overnight.

Final Thoughts

This simple oats haleem recipe is not only delicious but also versatile, making it an excellent choice for family meals. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, you can easily customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting spice levels. Give it a try—you’ll love how satisfying and nourishing it is!