The Transatlantic Terminology Explained
While the British term 'porridge' refers to any hot cereal made from grains, in the USA, the specific dish made from oats is called 'oatmeal'. Porridge in the American context is a more general term that could refer to a hot breakfast made from any grain, like corn (grits) or wheat (Cream of Wheat), though it's not as common a phrase for the specific oat version. The key takeaway is that if you're in America and want a bowl of cooked oats, you should ask for oatmeal.
The Historical Divide
The linguistic difference has historical roots. Oats were introduced to North America by Scottish settlers in the 17th century, where they were readily adopted. The American colonists were more accepting of oats than their English counterparts at the time, who famously considered them 'only fit for horses'. Over time, as oatmeal became a staple breakfast food in the U.S., the specific term 'oatmeal' became the standard, while 'porridge' remained the more general and traditional term in the UK and other Commonwealth nations.
Understanding the Different Types of 'Oatmeal' in the USA
When you go to an American grocery store, you won't see a box labeled 'porridge oats,' but you will find several different kinds of oatmeal, all derived from the whole oat groat. The processing method is what differentiates them, and each type offers a unique texture and cooking time.
- Steel-Cut Oats: Also known as Irish oats or pinhead oats, these are the least processed type of oatmeal. They are whole oat groats that have been chopped into two or three pieces with a steel blade, giving them a dense, chewy, and nutty texture when cooked. They take the longest to cook, typically 20-30 minutes.
- Rolled Oats: Also called old-fashioned oats, these are made by steaming and then rolling the whole oat groat into flat flakes. This process partially cooks the oat and shortens the cooking time significantly compared to steel-cut oats. Rolled oats have a softer texture and are excellent for baking, granola, and making standard oatmeal.
- Quick Oats: These are rolled oats that have been processed even further. They are rolled thinner and sometimes chopped into smaller pieces to reduce cooking time even more. They cook in just a few minutes but result in a softer, mushier texture than old-fashioned oats.
- Instant Oats: These are the most processed type of oats, often partially cooked, dried, and packaged with added flavorings. They cook almost instantly with just hot water, but often contain added sugars and have a very soft, gummy texture.
Comparison of Oat Types
To help clarify the differences between the types of 'oatmeal' you might find in the USA, here is a helpful comparison table:
| Feature | Steel-Cut Oats | Rolled (Old-Fashioned) Oats | Quick Oats | Instant Oats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processing | Chopped oat groats | Steamed and rolled groats | Rolled thinner, sometimes chopped | Pre-cooked, rolled thinnest |
| Texture | Chewy, hearty | Softer, flaky | Creamy, slightly mushy | Soft, gummy |
| Cooking Time | 20–30 minutes | 5–10 minutes | 1–5 minutes | 1 minute or less |
| Flavor | Nutty, earthy | Mild, slightly nutty | Mild | Flavor depends on packet |
| Best For | Hearty oatmeal, savory dishes | Baking, granola, standard oatmeal | Quick oatmeal, boosting fiber | Fastest breakfasts |
Conclusion
In summary, the term 'porridge oats' is not commonly used in the United States. Americans refer to the cooked oat cereal dish as 'oatmeal'. While the word 'porridge' has a broader definition encompassing any hot grain cereal, 'oatmeal' specifically denotes the type made from oats. Understanding the different types of oatmeal available—steel-cut, rolled, quick, and instant—can help you select the right product for your desired texture and cooking time, whether you're making a rich, chewy breakfast or a simple, quick meal.
https://www.masterclass.com/articles/porridge-vs-oatmeal-compared
Can you eat porridge oats raw?
Yes, rolled oats (often called old-fashioned oats) are perfectly safe to eat raw, as they are steamed during processing. They are commonly used in recipes like overnight oats and muesli.
Is oatmeal healthier than porridge?
Since oatmeal is simply a type of porridge (one made with oats), the two are not distinct in terms of health benefits, assuming they are made with the same type of oats. However, whole grain oat-based options like steel-cut or rolled oats tend to be healthier than instant versions, which often contain added sugars.
Can I use porridge oats for baking?
Yes, if you have access to them, rolled porridge oats can be used for baking in the same way you would use old-fashioned rolled oats in the USA. They are interchangeable in recipes for cookies, muffins, and breads.
What is the difference between porridge and oatmeal?
In the USA, 'oatmeal' is a specific type of porridge made from oats. The term 'porridge' is a broader category that can include other grains like corn (grits), rice (congee), or barley. In the UK, 'porridge' is the common term for the oat version, leading to transatlantic confusion.
Do Americans use the word 'porridge' at all?
Americans sometimes use the term 'porridge,' but often to refer to a wider variety of hot grain cereals, not exclusively those made with oats. For example, grits or Cream of Wheat could be described as a type of porridge, but it is not the standard term for cooked oats.
Are 'old-fashioned oats' the same as porridge oats?
In essence, yes. In the UK, 'porridge oats' typically refers to rolled oats, which are the equivalent of what Americans call 'old-fashioned oats' or 'rolled oats'. Both are steamed and flattened oat groats designed for a slightly longer cooking time than quick-cooking varieties.
What are 'Irish oats' called in the USA?
In the USA, 'Irish oats' are also known as 'steel-cut oats'. This variety is made by chopping the whole oat groat with steel blades, which gives it a heartier, chewier texture and a longer cooking time.
