Rinse the oat groats: Start by rinsing the oat groats under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. This step helps ensure the grains are clean before cooking.
Combine ingredients: In the slow cooker, add the rinsed oat groats, water or vegetable broth, and salt. Stir everything together to ensure the salt is evenly distributed.
Set the slow cooker: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to low heat. Allow the oat groats to cook for approximately 6 to 8 hours. The exact cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker, so it's essential to check for doneness as you approach the 6-hour mark.
Check for doneness: After 6 hours, check the oat groats for doneness. They should be tender and have a chewy texture. If they are not fully cooked, continue cooking for another hour or so until they reach the desired consistency.
Serve and garnish: Once the oat groats are cooked to perfection, it's time to serve and garnish. You can enjoy them as is or add your favorite toppings such as fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, honey, or maple syrup. These toppings will enhance the flavor and add a delightful touch to your oat groats.