In a recent article I wrote reviewing another Trader Joe’s product, jcorn asked my opinion on Trader Joe’s Steelcut Oatmeal.
I had tried Trader Joe’s Steelcut Oatmeal once before, but it had been a long time ago, so I needed to try it again.
What Does “Steelcut” Mean?
First off, I wondered, what exactly ‘steelcut’ meant.
A quick search on Wikipedia revealed that they are ‘whole grain groats (the inner portion of the oat kernel) which have been cut into only two or three pieces. They are also known as coarse-cut oats, or Irish oats. Apparently, the availability of instant steelcut oats is a big deal because it used to be one had to cook and stir it for a long time over a hot stove before being able to enjoy a bowl of it.
I suppose ‘steelcut’ also means they are healthier than the usual flavored instant oatmeal packets I normally eat. Probably also more expensive!
Frozen Oatmeal?
I found Trader Joe’s Steelcut Oatmeal in the frozen food section. It came in a box, containing two individually sealed plastic tub shaped packs. They were flavored with Brown Sugar and Maple Syrup. You cook them by placing the contents of the pouches into a microwave safe bowl and microwaving for 2 – 3 minutes depending on your microwave, stirring and microwaving again for another minute or so if necessary.
Nutritious Value of Trader Joe’s Steelcut Oatmeal
Price: $1.99 Serving: 1 package, 8oz.Calories: 150Fat: 4%, 2.5gSodium: 2%, 40mgProtein: 5gCarbs: 9%, 27gFiber: 16%, 4gWeight Watchers Points: 2 Points
At first glance, $1.99 seems rather high-priced for only 2 packages. However, these packages contain 2 hefty 8oz servings, filling a large bowl, unlike those tiny instant fruity oatmeal packages. These tubs actually fill you up until lunch time.
When I removed the freshly cooked bowl from the microwave and looked at the contents, I was hard-pressed to start ‘doctoring’ it up. I resisted the temptation in order to provide a true, pure, unadulterated taste experience of the oatmeal.
The taste was bland, but I could detect a slight brown sugar and maple flavor. This definitely met the taste requirements for healthy food. The texture was also a bit different than my usual oatmeal, which I like to cook until thick with almost no liquid left in the container. I found that I had to eat a lot slower due to the large rice-like pieces of oatmeal swimming in the otherwise, somewhat ‘slimy’ texture. I was careful to chew and eat slowly to maintain control of the food once inside my mouth. This was not entirely a bad thing. Eating slower makes one fill up faster, and I found that I was chewing more slowly and thoroughly.
On the second trial, I admittedly doctored up the oatmeal. I tried to keep it healthy by adding only a pinch of salt, some dried peaches, and a dab of margarine. I would have added my own brown sugar but I was fresh out of it. The oatmeal was a little more palatable this time.
In retrospect, I probably would purchase Trader Joe’s Steelcut Oatmeal again simply for the health benefits and convenience. Aside from the instant oatmeal packets I have purchased rolled oats, but often forget about using them as a breakfast porridge. I’d be more likely to grab one of these frozen tubs and add the usual goodies to it for a quick wholesome breakfast meal. I also feel good about the nutritional value of the oatmeal. I like that its low in sodium and fat, but high in protein and fiber. This would probably be the healthiest meal of my day, though certainly not the tastiest.
Okay, > jcorn so, now tell me how you feel about Trader Joe’s Steelcut Oatmeal?
