RECIPES: Easy snacks

Oatmeal Pancakes

Ingredients

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 cup milk (regular or non-dairy)
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for cooking)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon (optional)

Method

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the rolled oats and milk. Let the mixture stand for 10 minutes to soften the oats. Meanwhile, melt the butter and allow it to cool slightly.

2. Add the melted butter, eggs and sugar to the oat mixture and whisk until well combined.

3. Add the flour, baking powder, salt and cinnamon (if using). Stir until just combined. Do not overmix. Let the batter rest for another 5 minutes.

4. Heat a non-stick or cast-iron frying pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with butter.

5. Spoon about 2 tablespoons of batter per pancake into the pan, cooking three at a time.

6. Cook for about 3 minutes, or until bubbles appear on the surface and the edges begin to dry. Flip and cook for another 2–3 minutes, until golden brown.

7. Transfer to a warm plate and repeat with the remaining batter, adding a little butter to the pan between batches. Serve warm with honey, maple syrup or fresh fruit.

Garlic Chilli Oil Noodles

Ingredients

• 100 g noodles
• 2 tbsp garlic, finely chopped
• 2 spring onions, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds
• 2 tsp red chilli flakes
• 4 tbsp cooking oil
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp sugar
• 1 tbsp vinegar
• Salt, to taste

Method

1. Bring a pan of water to the boil and season with salt. Add the noodles and cook according to the packet instructions. Drain, rinse under cold water and set aside.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the garlic, spring onions, sesame seeds and chilli flakes.

3. Heat the oil until it is very hot, then carefully pour it over the garlic mixture. Stir well.

4. Add the soy sauce, sugar, salt and vinegar, and mix until the sugar has dissolved completely.

5. Add the cooked noodles and toss well using two forks or tongs until they are evenly coated in the garlic chilli oil.

6. Serve immediately, garnished with extra spring onions or sesame seeds if desired.