Steel-cut oats are whole grain groats (the inner portion of the oat kernel) which have been cut into two-three pieces by steel rather than being rolled. Steel-cut oats are golden in color and resemble small rice pieces. Steel-cut oats are also known as coarse-cut oats, pinhead oats, or Irish oats. These oats take a longer time to prepare, compared to instant or rolled oats, due to its minimal processing. The flavor of the cooked product is describe as being chewier and nuttier than instant oats.
A spoonful of steel-cut oats http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Steel_Cut_Oats_008_A.jpg Bart Lacks