Nothing fried! How to make oatmeal better than chips! A crunchy and healthy snack

That’s a fantastic challenge! Ditching the fried but still craving that satisfying crunch is a goal many share. Here are a few ideas on how to make oatmeal better than chips – focusing on a crunchy and healthy snack:

Method 1: Baked Oatmeal Crisps (Sweet or Savory)

This method transforms cooked oatmeal into thin, crispy bites.

Ingredients:

• Cooked Oatmeal: Use leftover oatmeal or cook some specifically for this. Make it slightly thicker than usual. You can flavor it sweet or savory during the cooking process.
  • Sweet: Add a touch of maple syrup, honey, cinnamon, or vanilla.
  • Savory: Add a pinch of salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Optional Binders (if needed for thinner crisps): 1-2 tablespoons of flaxseed meal mixed with water (let it sit for 5 minutes to thicken) or a very small amount of applesauce.
• Optional Toppings (for added flavor and texture):
  • Sweet: Seeds (chia, flax, sesame), chopped nuts, dried fruit (finely chopped).
  • Savory: Herbs (dried or fresh, finely chopped), spices (paprika, cumin), grated Parmesan cheese (if not vegan).

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to a low temperature, around 250-300°F (120-150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Oatmeal: If starting fresh, cook your oatmeal with slightly less liquid than usual for a thicker consistency. Stir in any desired sweet or savory flavorings.
3. Spread Thinly: Spread the cooked oatmeal very thinly and evenly onto the prepared baking sheet. The thinner you spread it, the crispier it will become. Use the back of a spoon or a spatula to achieve a uniform layer.
4. Add Toppings (Optional): Sprinkle any desired toppings evenly over the thin layer of oatmeal. Gently press them in.
5. Bake: Bake for 45-90 minutes, or even longer at a lower temperature, until the oatmeal is completely dry and crispy. The exact time will depend on the thickness of the layer and your oven. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
6. Cool and Break: Once cooled, the large sheet of crispy oatmeal can be broken into chip-like pieces.

Method 2: Dehydrated Oatmeal “Bark” (Sweet or Savory)

If you have a dehydrator, this is another excellent way to achieve a crunchy texture.

Ingredients: Same as above.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Oatmeal: Cook and flavor your oatmeal as described above.
2. Spread Thinly: Spread the cooked oatmeal very thinly and evenly onto dehydrator trays lined with non-stick sheets or parchment paper.
3. Add Toppings (Optional): Sprinkle and gently press in any desired toppings.
4. Dehydrate: Dehydrate at a low temperature (around 135°F or 57°C) for several hours (6-12 or more) until completely dry and brittle.
5. Break: Break the dehydrated oatmeal “bark” into crunchy pieces.

Why These are Better Than Chips (and Healthy):

• Whole Grains: Oatmeal is a whole grain, providing fiber, vitamins, and minerals that most chips lack.  
• Customizable: You control the flavor and ingredients, making them as healthy or indulgent as you like.
• No Frying: These methods avoid unhealthy frying oils.
• Naturally Filling: The fiber in oatmeal helps you feel fuller for longer.  
• Can be Savory: Unlike most chips which are often salty, you can create savory oatmeal crisps with herbs and spices.

Savory Oatmeal Flavor Ideas:

• Everything Bagel: Add poppy seeds, sesame seeds, dried garlic, and dried onion.  
• Herb & Cheese (Nutritional Yeast): Mix in dried herbs like rosemary, thyme, and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Spicy Paprika: Add smoked paprika, a pinch of cayenne pepper, and garlic powder.
• Mediterranean: Incorporate dried oregano, basil, and a touch of sun-dried tomato powder.

Experiment with different flavors and thicknesses to find your perfect crunchy and healthy oatmeal snack! Enjoy your “oatmeal chips”!