Oatmeal vs Cream Of Wheat: Difference and Comparison

Key Takeaways

1. Oatmeal has more protein and fiber, which makes it more filling and nutritious than cream of wheat.
2. Cream of wheat has a smoother, creamier texture than oatmeal.
3. Oatmeal can be customized with more mix-in options like fruit, nuts, or spices.

What is Oatmeal?

Oatmeal is a type of porridge made from oats. Oats are cereal grains commonly used for human consumption and are known for their nutritional value. They are rich in fiber, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Oatmeal is prepared by boiling oats in water or milk until they sand thicken into a creamy consistency.

Oatmeal can be enjoyed plain or enhanced with various toppings and flavorings, such as fruits, nuts, honey, cinnamon, or brown sugar. It is a popular breakfast option due to its versatility and health benefits. Oatmeal is known to provide sustained energy, help lower cholesterol levels, promote digestive health, and keep you feeling full for more extended periods.

What is Cream of Wheat?

Cream of Wheat is a brand name for a type of hot breakfast cereal made from wheat semolina. It is referred to as a “farina” cereal. The main ingredient in Cream of Wheat is ground wheat kernels, specifically the endosperm portion of the wheat grain.

Cream of Wheat is known for its smooth and comforting texture. It is a good source of iron, calcium, and other essential nutrients, depending on the specific brand and preparation method. Some people enjoy adding additional ingredients to their Cream of Wheat, such as fresh or dried fruits, nuts, or honey, to enhance the flavor and nutritional profile.

Difference Between Oatmeal and Cream of Wheat

1. Oatmeal is made from oats, while the cream of wheat is made from wheat semolina. Oatmeal is derived from oats, a whole grain, while the cream of wheat uses wheat kernels.
2. Oatmeal has a more coarse and chewy texture compared to cream of wheat, which has a smoother and creamier consistency. Oatmeal retains some of its grainy texture even after cooking, while the cream of wheat is known for its smooth and velvety texture.
3. Oatmeal and cream of wheat have different nutritional profiles. Oatmeal is higher in dietary fiber, particularly soluble fiber known as beta-glucan, which can help promote heart health and aid in digestion. Cream of wheat, on the other hand, tends to be lower in fiber and may have a higher carbohydrate content.
4. Oatmeal has a distinct nutty and slightly sweet flavor, whereas cream of wheat has a milder taste with a hint of wheatiness. Oatmeal is enjoyed for its natural flavor, while the cream of wheat is commonly seasoned with salt or sweetened with sugar to enhance its taste.
5. Oatmeal requires a longer cooking time compared to cream of wheat. Rolled oats and steel-cut oats, the most common types of oats used for oatmeal, take around 5 to 30 minutes to cook. In contrast, cream of wheat cooks relatively quickly and can be ready in a matter of minutes.

Comparison Between Oatmeal and Cream of Wheat

Parameters of Comparison	Oatmeal	Cream of Wheat
Grain Type	Made from oats	Made from wheat semolina
Gluten Content	Gluten-free options available	Contains gluten
Fiber Content	Higher in dietary fiber, especially beta-glucan	Lower in fiber content
Nutritional value	Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants	Provides essential nutrients like iron and calcium
Texture	Coarser and chewier texture	Smoother and creamier texture

References

1. https://pubs.acs.org/doi/pdf/10.1021/jf00093a036
2. https://academic.oup.com/jaoac/article-abstract/82/1/141/5683681

Last Updated : 25 August, 2023