If you’ve had a Dominican breakfast, you’ve likely tried Jugo de Avena, a creamy, refreshing oat-based drink enjoyed in the morning or afternoon. It comes in two styles: the traditional unblended version and the blended version. Both are lightly sweet, comforting, and infused with vanilla and citrus.
Traditional Jugo de Avena (Dominican Oatmeal Juice)
This is the authentic Dominican version, made without blending, that allows the oats to naturally soften in the milk for a rich, creamy drink with a slight texture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Oatmeal: The heart of the drink, adding a creamy texture and mild nutty flavor.
- Evaporated Milk: Provides richness and a smooth, velvety consistency.
- Milk: Helps achieve the perfect balance between thickness and drinkability.
- Vanilla Extract: Adds warm, sweet aroma and depth.
- Granulated White Sugar: Adds just the right sweetness (adjust to taste).
- Fresh Lemon Juice: Brings a bright, citrusy contrast to the creamy oats.
- Ice Cubes (optional): Keeps the drink extra refreshing and chilled.
How to Make the Blended Oats Version
If you’re short on time or prefer a smoother, lighter drink, this blended version is perfect! It’s made with rolled oats, regular milk, and lime juice for a refreshing take.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Milk: The drink’s base creates a creamy and smooth consistency.
- Rolled Oats: Adds body and natural thickness to the juice.
- Granulated White Sugar: Provides a touch of sweetness (adjust to taste).
- Ice Cubes (optional): Keeps the drink cold and refreshing.
- Fresh Lime Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy balance to the creamy oats.
Blend milk and rolled oats on high for 3 minutes until smooth. For a silkier texture, strain through a fine-mesh sieve (optional). Stir in sugar to taste and chill for at least 1 hour. Pour over ice, slowly mix in lime juice, and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Which Version Should You Choose?
- Traditional Dominican: Rich, creamy, and slightly textured for an authentic taste, this dish is best when made ahead and chilled.
- Quick & Light: Smoother, faster, and lighter, with no oat pieces. Perfect when short on time or out of evaporated milk.
Tips & Tricks
- Chill Before Adding Citrus: Always refrigerate before adding lime or lemon juice to prevent curdling.
- Strain for a Smoother Texture: If you prefer a silky drink, strain before serving.
- Blend Longer for Creaminess: Using rolled oats? Blend for a full 3 minutes for a smoother consistency.
- Serve Fresh: Jugo de Avena thickens over time, so enjoy it immediately for the best texture.
- Too Thick? If it thickens too much in the fridge, stir in extra milk or water until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Variations to Try
- Extra Creamy: Use whole milk or a splash of coconut milk for a richer texture.
- Naturally Sweetened: Swap sugar for honey, maple syrup, or condensed milk.
- Cinnamon-Spiced: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
- Fruity Oatmeal Juice: Mix strawberries, bananas, or mango for a fruit-infused version.
Why did my Jugo de Avena curdle
Chilled milk prevents curdling. Always cool the mixture before adding lemon or lime juice to keep it smooth.
Storage Advice
Store Jugo de Avena in the fridge for up to 2 days in an airtight container. Stir before serving as oats settle. Add lime or lemon juice just before drinking to prevent curdling. Enjoy chilled or blended with ice, shaking or stirring as it thickens.
Love creamy, refreshing drinks? Try my Rice Drink for a smooth, lightly spiced alternative, Iced Cinnamon Dolce Latte for a sweet, café-style treat, or Lavender Vanilla Coffee for a floral twist on your morning brew.
Jugo de Avena
Ingredients
Traditional Dominican Version
- 1 cup oatmeal
- 1 can evaporated milk
- 1 cup milk
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup granulated white sugar
- 2-3 lemons (juiced)
- ice cubes
Blended Oats Version
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1½ cups water
- 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
- 1 cup regular milk
- 1 tbsp vanilla extract
- ¼ cup granulated white sugar
- 2-3 lemons
- ice cubes
Instructions
Traditional Dominican Version
- In a large bowl or jug, combine the oatmeal, evaporated milk, regular milk, vanilla extract, and sugar. Using a hand mixer or whisk, mix well until the sugar dissolves and the ingredients are fully incorporated.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. This step allows the oats to soften, creating a naturally thick and creamy texture while letting the flavors meld together.
- If you prefer a completely smooth drink, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any oat solids. However, some people enjoy the slight texture, so this step is optional.
- Once the mixture is fully chilled, slowly pour in the lemon juice while stirring continuously. This helps prevent curdling, ensuring a smooth and delicious drink.
- Pour the Jugo de Avena into ice-filled glasses and serve immediately while it’s cold and fresh. Enjoy!
Blended Oats Version
- In a high-speed blender, combine the oats with 1½ cups of water. Blend until smooth and creamy, about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Pour in the evaporated milk, regular milk, vanilla, and sugar. Blend again until everything is fully combined.
- For an ultra-smooth drink, strain through a fine mesh sieve. If your blender is strong and you don’t mind a touch of texture, you can skip it.
- With the blender off, slowly stir in the lemon juice to prevent curdling. Mix gently but thoroughly.
- Pour into ice-filled glasses and enjoy immediately!
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