The Unconventional Ingredient That Will Change Your Oatmeal Forever

It's time to toss the boring oatmeal toppings once and for all. Switch it up with the unconventional ingredient that will change your breakfast forever. Almonds, raisins, and blueberries have nothing on this tastebud game-changer.

How many times have you longed for something a little more, eh, exciting? Oatmeal is a fantastic breakfast option because it's packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein, and hunger-busting fiber, according to WebMD. Top the porridge with something crunchy, tart, or sweet, and you've created a delicious treat.

Not only does oatmeal taste great, but it also has many health benefits. According to Healthline, oats may prevent type 2 diabetes, decrease childhood asthma, enhance your body's ability to fight off viruses and bacteria, and reduce the need for laxatives. Oats also help satisfy hunger for longer and are gluten-free. It's obvious why oatmeal is such a popular breakfast food.

If you're looking to spice things up a bit, this nutritious ingredient will change your oatmeal forever.

Ready to get wild? Well + Good says that tiger nuts are a sweet root vegetable in the same family as the potato, and they make a great oatmeal topper. Bonus: They're not actually nuts, so they're safe to eat if you have nut allergies, according to Global News. The tiny, chickpea-shaped tiger nuts have a fig-like outer texture and a chewy center. If you don't prefer a chewy texture, the "nuts' are also available in a pre-peeled version. According to The Spruce Eats, they taste sweet like pecans and earthy like a Brazil nut or fig. It's something you need to taste test for yourself.

Heal With Food says that tiger nuts are not only fantastic oatmeal and salad toppers, but are a great addition to smoothies and trail mixes as well. Tiger nuts also have several health benefits in addition to tasting delicious. According to Well + Good, the tuber has prebiotic qualities. Registered Dietician Tracy Lockwood Beckerman says, "They serve as a prebiotic to the body, so they help to build a healthy, balanced and diverse microbiome in the gut." According to Real Simple, Tiger nuts also have anti-inflammatory properties and are high in fiber.