Origins and the Cold-Rolling Process
New Found Oatmeal is a specific product from the Speerville Flour Mill in New Brunswick, Canada, and is not a different species of oat. Its defining characteristic is the production method. While most commercial rolled oats are steamed before being rolled flat, New Found Oatmeal is cold-rolled. The process starts with organic oat groats—the whole, hulled oat kernels—which are minimally processed and have not been heat-treated. They are then passed through a mill to be rolled into thick flakes without the use of heat, preserving their raw state.
This minimal processing results in a product that retains a distinct texture and nutty flavor. Since the oats are not pre-cooked with steam, they require a slightly longer cooking time than quick-cooking or instant oats, but deliver a superior, more substantial final texture. The mill's process ensures the oats remain as close to their natural state as possible, offering a product for consumers who prioritize less processed foods.
Culinary Applications
Due to its robust, dense texture, New Found Oatmeal is exceptionally versatile in the kitchen. Its ability to hold shape and absorb liquid well makes it a key ingredient in many recipes. Here are some popular ways to use it:
- Hearty Porridge: It cooks into a rich, creamy, and wonderfully chewy porridge. You can prepare it on the stovetop by bringing water or milk to a boil, adding the oats, and simmering for several minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Baked Goods: The thick flakes hold up well in baking, making them perfect for adding texture to muffins, cookies, breads, and scones.
- Granola: The cold-rolled process and robust texture are ideal for creating homemade granola that has a satisfying crunch.
- Overnight Oats: For a simpler, no-cook preparation, New Found Oatmeal can be used for overnight oats. The raw, thick flakes require a longer soak, typically overnight, to soften properly, yielding a dense, creamy result.
New Found Oatmeal vs. Other Oat Types
To better understand what makes this product special, it helps to compare it to other common varieties found in stores. All forms of oats start as whole oat groats, but are processed differently to achieve various textures and cooking times.
| Feature | New Found Oatmeal | Old-Fashioned Rolled Oats | Steel-Cut Oats | Instant Oats |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Processing | Cold-rolled from raw groats, no steaming. | Steamed and then rolled into flatter flakes. | Whole groats cut into small pieces with a steel blade. | Pre-cooked, dried, and cut into very small pieces. |
| Texture | Dense, chewy, and substantial. | Softer than cold-rolled but still holds some texture. | Chewy and hearty, retaining more of a "grain" bite. | Soft and mushy; loses texture easily. |
| Cooking Time | Longer than standard rolled oats, requires more hydration. | Faster than steel-cut; typically 5-10 minutes on stovetop. | Longest cooking time, around 20-30 minutes. | Quickest cooking time, often just requires hot water. |
| Best For... | Hearty porridge, baking, and homemade granola. | Classic porridge, cookies, and various baked goods. | Porridge with a distinct, nutty texture. | Convenient, fast-cooking breakfast. |
| Nutritional Value | 100% whole grain; same base nutrition as other whole oats. | 100% whole grain. | 100% whole grain; slightly lower glycemic load. | Typically more processed; may contain additives like sugar. |
Health Benefits
Like all whole-grain oats, New Found Oatmeal is a powerhouse of nutrition. The minimal processing ensures all the inherent goodness of the oat groat remains intact. The key health benefits include:
- Rich in Fiber: Oats are an excellent source of dietary fiber, particularly beta-glucan, which helps promote healthy digestion, lowers bad cholesterol (LDL), and improves blood sugar control.
- Packed with Antioxidants: The whole grain is rich in antioxidants, including a unique group called avenanthramides, which have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce blood pressure.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Oats provide a robust profile of vitamins and minerals, including manganese, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and B vitamins.
- Feeling of Fullness: The high fiber and protein content contribute to a feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management.
Conclusion
While the term new found oatmeal might suggest a novel crop, it actually refers to a specific, minimally-processed product from a Canadian mill that prioritizes a raw, cold-rolling method. For the health-conscious consumer seeking a more textured and less processed whole grain, this specialty oat provides a dense, chewy alternative to more commercial varieties. Its versatility in cooking, from creamy porridge to hearty baked goods, makes it a valuable addition to any pantry. The name itself reflects a personal discovery, now shared with anyone looking for a wholesome, high-quality breakfast or baking ingredient.
How to Cook New Found Oatmeal
Unlike quick-cooking varieties, this type of oatmeal benefits from a slower preparation. Here’s a simple guide:
- Stovetop Porridge: Bring 2 cups of water or milk to a boil. Add 1 cup of New Found Oatmeal and a pinch of salt. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 10-15 minutes, or until the oats have absorbed the liquid and reached a thick, creamy consistency.
- Overnight Oats: Combine 1/2 cup of New Found Oatmeal, 1/2 cup of milk (dairy or plant-based), and your choice of mix-ins like seeds or spices in a jar. Stir well, cover, and refrigerate overnight. It will be ready to eat in the morning.
Adding fruit, nuts, seeds, or sweeteners like maple syrup are excellent ways to customize and enhance the flavor.
