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Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal Porridge

November 26, 2023
Shanika | Orchids + Sweet Tea

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If you're a lover of all things coffee + chai then you’ll LOVE this Dirty Chai Oatmeal Porridge! It’s the perfect cozy caffeinated way to start the day!

Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal Porridge

Start chilly mornings right with a cozy bowl of Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal Porridge--- This inviting blend of thick-cut rolled oats, fresh coffee, vanilla + a medley of comforting chai spices not only warms you up but also gives you that extra morning boost you need. This dirty chai porridge recipe is the perfect way to embrace the day ahead! Completely Gluten-free with an Overnight, Caffeine-free, Dairy-free + Vegan Option.

Dirty chai latte oatmeal porridge in a blue bowl with two spoons on a brown wood table.

If you love chai lattes but also appreciate a strong espresso kick, this Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal is calling your name! Creamy oatmeal meets chai tea infused with a shot of espresso for that perfect blend of spicy, sweet, and bold flavors---I've been all about chai lately, you know, Homemade Pumpkin Chai Cinnamon Rolls + Vegan Chai Gingerbread, and my classic Dirty Chai Maple Iced Latte--- Their flavors sparked this oatmeal idea—I figured why not infuse that goodness into my morning oats?

My love for coffee (lattes in particular) is undeniable. I used to be all about oatmeal, and now it's making a comeback in my breakfast routine. Why? Well, for one, it's ridiculously easy, and secondly, oatmeal just hits differently this time of year. So I just had to combine the two!

Knowing your love for oats with various flavors (My latest ones that you went CRAZY for were Maple Cinnamon Oatmeal + Roasted Oranges and Vegan Peach Crisp Oatmeal Porridge) I had to make this dirty chai latte oatmeal just for y'all! This oatmeal is a breeze to make and has make-ahead + overnight options. It gives you that caffeine boost and tastes seriously amazing. Plus, there's a vegan option, making it a hit for everyone. Trust me, it's a household favorite during the cozy fall and winter seasons, and for all the right reasons! If you love all things chai---Explore all my chai-infused recipes.

Jump to:

What Is Dirty Chai?

When you hear "dirty chai" a lot comes to mind! Don't worry no dirt involved—just a delightful blend of chai tea and espresso. The blend offers a unique + delightful fusion of spicy chai flavors with the boldness of espresso, creating a harmonious balance between the aromatic spices and the rich coffee taste.

Ingredients on a brown wood table.

How to Make Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal Porridge

There are a few key ingredients in this porridge recipe that you may not usually use in your morning oatmeal AKA coffee + chai but these make this bowl so much more tastier and comforting. Of course, I always use Bob's Red Mill products when it comes to my flours, oats, and grains, so this recipe was no different.

Ingredients

CHAI TEA:

  • Filtered water.
  • Black tea bags. I use Twinnings Decaffeinated to not overload with caffeine with the coffee in the porridge!
  • Spices. My favorites to use are nutmeg, ginger, allspice, cardamom + a pinch of black pepper, and ground cloves for that real chai flavor!

OATMEAL:

  • Thick-cut rolled oats. Choose gluten-free if necessary. You can also use old-fashioned if preferred. See below for other oat types like steel cut and quick oats.
  • Almond milk. (You can use water or your fave plant-based milk instead!)
  • Sweetened condensed milk. Trust me it adds a whole other layer of deliciousness. For dairy-free option you can use dairy-free condensed milk by Let's Do....Organic. Such a nice creamy substitute.
  • Freshly brewed espresso or coffee. Adds the 'dirty' element to the porridge and a hit of caffeine --- feel free to opt for decaf if you prefer!
  • Organic brown sugar. Or your fave sweetener-- maple syrup of honey work too!
  • Vanilla extract. The pure vanilla is the best flavor.
  • Chai tea. For the chai-flavored goodness!

SHOP MY FAVORITE TOOLS FOR BAKING, ESPECIALLY FOR THIS PORRIDGE!

Here, I’ve curated a list of baking essentials that I use to achieve my favorite baked goods, especially with this Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal Porridge. Everything from my fave loaf pan, wooden spoons, parchment paper, and more. SEE THEM HERE!

TOPPINGS:

Chai tea mixture in a saucepan with tea bags.

What You'll Love Most About this Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal Porridge

  • A fresh kick of energy from the coffee!
  • Extremely creamy + smooth in texture for a nice spoonful with each bite.
  • Has a rich, perfectly packed warm-spiced topping.
  • Dairy-free + vegan + gluten-free options for everyone to enjoy!
  • Can be enjoyed hot or cold as overnight oats----with the same amount of deliciousness!
  • Morning comfort in a bowl!

Tips for the Perfect Oatmeal + Variation/Topping Ideas.

  • To change things up, simply add other flavors such as juice of an orangeapple chunksberrieszest, or other extracts.
  • You can use any sweetener option you please—-Agave, maple syruphoneyapple sauce, or another natural sweetener.
  • For additional nutrients, feel free to add flaxseed mealchia seedssunflower seedspumpkin seeds, etc.
  • Top with other caramelized fruitdried fruitdollops of yogurtcranberrieschocolate chips, or whatever you choose.
  • For make-ahead meals or on-the-go, simply make this and store in a mason jar.
  • For a nice creaminess, add your favorite butterspeanut butteralmond butterpecan butter, sunbutter, etc.
  • Add cooked grains such as quinoaamaranth, or wheat germ. You can also add granola.
  • For a bit more crunch factor, you can top with toasted nuts like pecanswalnutspeanuts, or walnuts.
  • You can boost up your protein intake with half the scoop of protein powder.
Bowl of dirty chai latte oatmeal with spoons, granola, and a blue napkin on a wood table.

What Types Of Oats I Can Use For Porridge?

I'm all about that creamy texture you get from steel-cut rolled oats! But hey, when it comes to oats, there's a whole bunch out there, each with its own special qualities.

You can use various types of oats for porridge:

Rolled oats (old-fashioned oats)--- These are most commonly used for porridge. They cook relatively quickly and offer a creamy texture.

Quick Oats--- They are similar to rolled oats but are cut into smaller pieces, which makes them cook faster.

Steel-cut oats--- These oats are less processed and have a chewier texture. They take longer to cook but offer a hearty, nuttier flavor.

Instant oats---These oats are pre-cooked and then dried. They cook the fastest but might have a softer texture compared to other varieties.

Choose the type of oats based on the texture + cooking time you prefer for your porridge!

Health Benefits of Oats

Oats are another superfood that’s great to start your day with. Rolled oats like the ones used in this recipe, are a healthy source of complex carbs, fiber (the soluble kind!), protein, and fat. In addition, they are loaded with important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Other great benefits of oats, according to studies:

  • They can help lower cholesterol.
  • Helps regulate blood sugar levels to avoid crashes and spikes
  • May help with losing weight.
  • Helps to relieve constipation.

How To Toast Nuts?

Add chopped walnuts/pecans/almonds, etc. to a baking sheet and toast them in the oven (400 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5-10 minutes, tossing them halfway to avoid browning on one side! Nuts make for a delicious topping for this porridge!

Bowl of dirty chai latte oatmeal with spoons and spices.

Why Sweetened Condensed Milk Is So Important!

First, I must let you know that Sweetened Condensed Milk is a canned milk that has 60 percent of it's water content removed, making it thicker in consistency.

Also, it has 40-45% sugar, making it a great sugar substitute in recipes that use sugar. More importantly, condensed milk creates a caramelized flavor along with it's sweetness, which give the dishes that require it, a beautiful kick of flavor.

That being said---I generally love using the original Sweetened Condensed Milk like the Eagle Brand's version, however, If you are dairy-free or vegan I love using Edwards & Son's Let's Do Organic's dairy-free coconut version for vegan-friendly meals!

Can I Use Other Types of Milk for This Porridge?

Absolutely! If you’d like to switch things up with the type of plant-based milk that you use for this Dirty Chai Latte Porridge Recipe—–that’s totally fine! The world of plant-based milk is constantly expanding. From the classics like coconut milkcashew milk, soy milk and almond milk, we now have delicious options like oat milk, and even potato and quinoa milk.

Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal Porridge Recipe Q + A's

How to store Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal?

It can be stored in the refrigerator (once fully cooled) for up to 5 days. Perfect for meal prep for the week!

Is there an overnight make-ahead option?

Yes! Simply add all oatmeal ingredients (substituting the brown sugar with maple syrup) to a bowl and mix together until combined. Tightly cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours). Once ready to serve, top overnight oats with toppings and enjoy.

Can I use a chai tea bag instead?

Definitely! You can also use a chai tea bag blend instead of making your own blend if preferred.

How to make this porridge recipe dairy-free?

Simply use dairy-free condensed milk in replacement of regular condensed milk!

Can I make this Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal recipe without Caffeine?

Yes of course! Just opt for caffeine-free tea bags and a decaf coffee blend. It is still equally as delicious!

Is this Dirty Chai Latte porridge recipe Gluten-free?

Yes! Just be sure to check your oats are certified GF!

Up close shot of dirty chai latte oatmeal in a bowl with a spoon and garnish.

More Comforting Breakfast Recipes to Try Next!

If this Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal Porridge recipe hits the spot, you’ll definitely want to cozy up to my other warming breakfasts next!

MADE OUR RECIPE(S)?

If you tried this Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal Porridge recipe or any other recipe on my website, please please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how you go in the 📝 comments below. And don't forget to tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram  and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea! I love hearing from you!

Oatmeal in a blue bowl with two spoons on a brown wood table.

Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal Porridge

November 26, 2023
5 from 2 votes
Start chilly mornings right with a cozy bowl of Dirty Chai Latte Oatmeal Porridge--- This inviting blend of thick-cut rolled oats, fresh coffee, vanilla + a medley of comforting chai spices not only warms you up but also gives you that extra morning boost you need. It’s the perfect way to embrace the day ahead!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Serves: 2 servings

Ingredients

CHAI TEA:

  • 1 cup filtered water
  • 2-3 black tea bags, premium
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon ground ginger
  • ¼ teaspoon ground allspice
  • teaspoon ground cardamom
  • Pinch of black pepper
  • Pinch of ground cloves

OATMEAL:

  • 1 cup thick-cut Rolled oats, organic
  • 3 cups Almond milk (You can use water or your fave plant-based milk instead!)
  • 1 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 2 ounces freshly-brewed espresso or coffee
  • ¼ cup organic brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup chai tea

TOPPINGS:

  • Granola
  • Rolled oats
  • Cinnamon sticks
  • Star anise
  • Toasted nuts (See Notes)

Instructions

TO MAKE THE CHAI TEA:

  • In a medium saucepan on medium-high heat, add the water and bring to a boil for 1-2 minutes. Add the tea bags and let it boil for another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let everything steep for 5-6 minutes.
  • Once fully steeped, remove tea bags and whisk in cinnamon, nutmeg, ground ginger, allspice, cardamom, ground cloves, and black pepper until dissolved and combined. Let cool completely.

TO MAKE THE OATMEAL:

  • Add oats and Almond milk to a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring until everything is combined. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low so that everything simmers for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. At the halfway mark, stir in the condensed milk. Continue to simmer.
  • Once done, oats should thicken and become swollen + fluffy and creamy with half the liquid still remaining. Stir in the brown sugar, vanilla, and freshly-brewed coffee and let it simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes before removing it from heat.
  • To serve, portion oatmeal into serving bowl(s) and top with toasted nuts, rolled oats, cinnamon sticks, star anise, and/or granola, if desired.
  • Bon Appetit!

Tips & Tricks

  • STORAGE: Can be stored in the refrigerator (once fully colled) for up to 5 days. Perfect for meal prep for the week!
  • OVERNIGHT OPTION: Simply add all oatmeal ingredients (substituting the brown sugar with maple syrup) to a bowl and mix together until combined. Tightly cover bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 8 hours). Once ready to serve, top overnight oats with toppings and enjoy.
  • TOASTED NUTS: Add chopped walnuts/pecans/almonds, etc. to a baking sheet and toasting them in the oven (400 degrees Fahrenheit) for 5-10 minutes, tossing them halfway to avoid browning on one side.
  • WHAT PLANT-BASED MILKS ARE GOOD FOR THIS RECIPE? My go-to plant-based brand for plant-based milk when using store-bought is Ripple. However, you can always use your fave or one of the following: Almondcoconut milk, homemade oat milk (froths/foams VERY WELL), homemade cashew milk, flax milk, potato milkquinoa milk, etc.
  • TEA BAG: You can also use a chai tea bag blend instead if preferred.

Nutrition

Calories: 661kcal | Carbohydrates: 113g | Protein: 14g | Fat: 18g | Saturated Fat: 9g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 3g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 52mg | Sodium: 696mg | Potassium: 621mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 111g | Vitamin A: 413IU | Vitamin C: 4mg | Calcium: 924mg | Iron: 1mg

DID YOU MAKE THIS recipe?

Tag @orchidsnsweettea_ on Instagram and hashtag it #orchidsandsweettea

Xx, Shanika in script writing

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