Kefir Overnight Oats

What the heck is kefir? Many people are often confused why this fermented milk beverage got a nod in Canada's Food Guide, in favour of more common foods like cottage cheese. Popular in eastern and northern Europe, kefir seems to be one of the latest trends in the world of nutrition, thanks to its probiotic content - the bacteria that are used to make kefir survive the whole digestive process and make it all the way down to our large intestine, where they can help to increase the number and variety of healthy bacteria in our gut. This recipe can be easily scaled up and made ahead, so you can have delicious and filling grab-and-go recipes for the week!

Author: Vincci Tsui, RD

Recipe type: Breakfast, Vegetarian

Makes: 1

Ingredients

• 1 cup (250 mL) kefir

• ¼ cup (60 mL) steel cut oats or rolled oats (look for gluten-free oats if you would like this recipe to be gluten-free)

• 2 Tbsp (30 mL) chia seeds

• Vanilla and/or spices, to taste (optional)

• Fresh or frozen fruit, about ½-¾ cup total

• Nuts, seeds and cacao nibs (optional)

Instructions

1. Stir together kefir, oats and chia seeds in a pint-sized mason jar. Stir in vanilla and/or spices, if using.

2. Layer fruit on top of the oat mixture. Refrigerate overnight.

3. When ready to serve, top with your favourite nuts, seeds and cacao nibs, as desired.