Avocado Oatmeal Pancake Sandwich
Ingredients:
- 1 avocado
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1 tomato, finely chopped
- 1/4 of an onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 tsp table salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1 cup oatmeal
- 5 tbsp milk (oat milk can be used)
- 2 eggs (or 2 tbsp chia seeds as a vegan alternative)
- Vegetable fat (for frying)
- Cucumber slices (optional, for serving)
Directions:
- Begin by preparing the avocado: remove the pit and mash the avocado in a small bowl.
- Prepare the filling by adding paprika, chopped tomato, chopped onion, salt, black pepper, chopped coriander, and lemon juice to the mashed avocado. Mix well and set aside.
- In a mixing bowl, combine oatmeal, milk, and eggs (or chia seeds). Stir until the mixture reaches a pancake batter consistency.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little vegetable fat to grease the pan.
- Pour half of the oatmeal batter into the pan, spreading it to form a pancake. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Repeat with the remaining batter to make a second pancake.
- Spread the avocado filling generously over one pancake, top with cucumber slices if desired, then cover with the second pancake to form a sandwich.
- Cut the stuffed pancake into halves or quarters and serve immediately
- Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 6 minutes | Total Time: 16 minutes | Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 2
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
- Avocado: Loaded with healthy fats, avocados are not only good for heart health but also provide a creamy texture and rich flavor that enhances any dish. They are also high in fiber, which aids in digestion.
- Oatmeal: Known for its high fiber content and ability to lower cholesterol, oatmeal makes an excellent base for pancakes, giving them a hearty texture and extended satiety.
- Eggs or Chia Seeds: Offering flexibility, eggs provide protein, while chia seeds serve as a plant-based alternative that brings omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Fresh Herbs and Spices: Coriander and lemon add a burst of freshness and can elevate the flavor profile, making the dish more vibrant and appealing.
Culinary Techniques: Perfecting the Pancake
Creating the perfect oatmeal pancake requires attention to detail:
- Consistency: The batter should be similar to traditional pancake batter; not too runny and not too thick. This ensures it spreads evenly in the pan but still holds its shape.
- Cooking: Cook the pancakes on medium heat to prevent them from burning while still allowing enough time for them to cook through completely. This will ensure they are golden and crispy on the outside but soft on the inside.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Presentation plays a big role in enjoying food, and the Avocado Oatmeal Pancake Sandwich is no exception:
- Stacking: Layering the ingredients neatly will not only make the sandwich more appealing but also easier to eat. A little layering technique can go a long way in making each bite contain the perfect mix of flavors and textures.
- Garnishes: A sprinkle of paprika or a few cilantro leaves on top can add color and intrigue to the dish, making it more visually appealing.
Variations to Suit All Tastes
This versatile recipe can be easily adjusted to meet different dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the oatmeal with gluten-free oats to cater to those with gluten sensitivities.
- Dairy-Free: Use dairy-free milk alternatives and skip the sour cream or find a suitable vegan substitute to make this recipe dairy-free.
- Add-Ins: For an extra protein boost, consider adding smoked salmon or crispy bacon inside the sandwich. For more vegetables, throw in some spinach or arugula for added nutrients and a peppery kick.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of this breakfast sandwich is not only a good source of protein and healthy fats but also provides essential vitamins and minerals from the fresh ingredients used. It’s a balanced meal that can help start the day on a positive note, providing energy and satisfaction without the heaviness of more traditional fried breakfast foods.