Baked Pumpkin Oatmeal Porridge

There is nothing better than a warm bowl of baked pumpkin oatmeal porridge as the weather gets cold! This version calls for pumpkin puree. I typically cook the whole pumpkin and then freeze it in 1/3 of a cup portions to use in oatmeal, scones and pumpkin smoothies.

Pumpkin is a highly nutrient dense food and is one of the best known sources of beta-carotene which converts to Vitamin A. The fibre, potassium, and vitamin C content in pumpkin all support heart health. Studies have shown that eating pumpkin can also help to regulate blood sugar levels and help with eye and skin health. Multiple studies have found that beta carotene also has positive effects on cognitive function and memory. 

Baked Pumpkin Oatmeal Porridge

Ingredients

• 2 TBSP of flax / linseeds + 5 TBSP water
• 1/3 cup mashed pumpkin purée 
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 3 Tbsp apple puree
• 1/4 tsp sea salt
• ¼ tsp Ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp Ginger
• ¼ tsp Clove
• ¼ tsp Nutmeg
• ¼ tsp Allspice
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 2 cups dairy free milk
• 2 1/2 cups rolled oats
• 3/4 cup pecans, chopped
• 1/3 cup cranberries, fresh or frozen

How to make the Baked Pumpkin Oatmeal Porridge

1. Preheat the oven to 180c and grease an 11 x 7 Pyrex baking dish with plant-based oil or vegan butter
2. Add the flax seeds to the water and rest for a few minutes
3. In a large mixing bowl, add the pumpkin, maple syrup, apple puree, salt, spices, then stir to combine all of the ingredients
4. Add the milk and stir again
5. Add the oats and half of the pecans and stir for the final time
6. Transfer the oatmeal mixture to the greased baking dish
7. Sprinkle over the cranberries and the remaining pecans
8. Bake until the top is golden brown, about 30-40 minutes. Check that the centre is not too doughy by pressing lightly on top for springiness
9. Remove from the oven and enjoy with some coconut, oat or other plant-based cream
10. You can store the remaining oatmeal in the fridge for a few days or freeze in portions  

Looking for more balanced plant-based recipes and ideas? Follow my Nourish boards on Pinterest.

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