Quick-Cooking Oats
What is the difference between quick-cooking and old-fashioned oats…and can they be used interchangeably? —J.M., Wauwatosa, Wisconsin
Before either quick-cooking or old-fashioned oats are processed, the hull is removed and they are cleaned, toasted and cleaned again. At this point, they are referred to as groats. Old-fashioned oats are groats that are steamed and flattened with huge rollers. They take about 15 minutes to cook. Quick-cooking oats are groats that have been cut into two or three pieces before being steamed and rolled. They take about 5 minutes to prepare. Both can be used interchangeably, although old-fashioned oats may give your recipe more texture.