Dr Johnson Was Wrong, I Think!

Johnson's dictionary  defines the word oats: 'a grain, which in England is generally given to horses, but in Scotland supports the people.' Well, I happen to think it is quite good food for people, Scottish, English or whoever!

I tried out the recipe from Liz

Oat Groat Pilaf

• 2 tsp. olive oil, divided
• 1 cup oat groats
• 1 medium onion
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 2 cups chicken stock
• salt & pepper
• 2 tbs. chopped parsley
• 2 medium tomatoes, sliced, for garnish

Heat 1 tsp. of the oil in a heavy, medium saucepan, and stir in the groats. Cook the groats, stirring them, for about 3 minutes to toast them.

Add the remaining olive oil and sauté the mixture for about 3 minutes, until the onion is soft. Add the mushrooms, and cook the mixture for another 5 minutes or so, until the mushrooms are wilted.

Add the broth, pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce the heat, cover the pan and simmer the pilaf for about 40 minutes, stirring it occasionally. Remove the pilaf from the heat, stir in the parsley, garnish with tomatoes.

Verdict  - pleasantly 'nutty' in texture. I served it with a green salad, and a cool drink. Will serve the remainder cold later.

Even tonic water looks classy when you dress it up with a spoonful of grenadine syrup, a cherry and a citrus wedge!