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Ben's Galley Build-Your-Own Breakfast Bar: Oatmeal & Yogurt Station

Updated: Jun 7

Setting up a breakfast bar solves the biggest galley challenge: feeding people with different tastes and dietary needs efficiently. The oatmeal provides hearty, warming fuel while the yogurt offers a lighter, protein-rich option. With an array of toppings, everyone can create their perfect breakfast.

The galley advantage: Minimal active cooking, easy to keep warm, accommodates dietary restrictions, and crew members can serve themselves - freeing you up for other morning tasks.


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The Setup

Instant Pot Oatmeal Base:

  • 4 cups old-fashioned rolled oats

  • 6 cups water

  • 2 cups whole milk

  • 1 teaspoon salt

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

  • 2 tablespoons butter


Yogurt Base:

  • Greek yogurt (plain and vanilla)


The Toppings Bar:

  • Banana chips

  • Dried cranberries

  • Granola (2-3 varieties)

  • Shredded coconut

  • Brown sugar

  • Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)

  • Fresh berries (when available)


Instructions

For the Instant Pot Oatmeal:

  1. Add ingredients: Combine oats, water, milk, salt, and brown sugar in the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.

  2. Pressure cook: Secure lid and set valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 4 minutes.

  3. Natural release: Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick release any remaining pressure.

  4. Finish: Stir in butter and adjust consistency with additional milk if needed.

  5. Keep warm: Use the "Keep Warm" function to maintain perfect serving temperature throughout breakfast service.


Setting Up the Bar:

  1. Arrange stations: Set up oatmeal in one area, yogurt in another, with toppings between them.

  2. Provide tools: Small bowls, spoons, and serving utensils for each topping.

  3. Label everything: Simple signs help crew members know what's available.

  4. Keep it fresh: Replenish toppings as needed throughout breakfast service.


Chef's Tips

  • Instant Pot advantage: Set it and forget it - perfect for busy galley mornings

  • Consistent results: Same perfect texture every time, even in rough seas

  • Variety is key: Offer both sweet and savory topping options

  • Temperature matters: Keep oatmeal warm but not scorching hot

  • Fresh additions: Add fresh fruit when available

  • Dietary notes: Label items that are gluten-free, dairy-free, etc.


Ben's Gadgets

Instant Pot Duo Plus 9-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker

Game-changer for galley cooking! Makes perfect oatmeal with zero babysitting, and the keep-warm function is ideal for breakfast service. The 9-in-1 functionality means it replaces multiple appliances - essential for efficient marine cooking where galley space is at a premium. Perfect for rough seas since there's no risk of scorching or boiling over.


Divided Serving Tray with Lid and Handle

Perfect for organizing all those breakfast bar toppings! The divided compartments keep banana chips, dried cranberries, granola, and coconut separate and fresh. The lid protects everything from galley moisture and salt air, while the handle makes it easy to transport and set up the toppings station. Essential for keeping your breakfast bar organized and professional-looking.



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