Description
A simple and nutritious oatmeal recipe perfect for breakfast.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1/2 cup (45g) old fashioned rolled oats
- 1 cup (240ml) water or milk
- pinch of sea salt
- 1/41/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/41/2 teaspoon vanilla (optional)
- 1/2 cup (75g) chopped apple (for apple cinnamon variation)
- 1/2 tablespoon maple syrup (for maple brown sugar variation)
- 1–2 tablespoons brown sugar (for maple brown sugar variation)
- banana slices (for banana nut variation)
- 2 tablespoons toasted walnuts (for banana nut variation)
- 1/2 tablespoon peanut butter (for banana nut variation)
- 1/41/2 teaspoon chia seeds (for banana nut variation)
- 1/4 cup (40g) fresh berries (for berry almond variation)
- 2 tablespoons chopped roasted almonds (for berry almond variation)
- 1 tablespoon chocolate chips (for berry almond variation)
Instructions
- Cook Oats & Liquid: Start by bringing your chosen liquid to a gentle boil. You will notice the steam rising and a light simmer happening—that is exactly what you want. This step ensures the oats will cook evenly and absorb that nice flavor. Be careful not to let it boil over!
- Add Oats & Stir: Once it is boiling, stir in the oats. You will see them starting to soften almost immediately and smell that warm, nutty aroma in the air. Stirring helps prevent clumping, which is a common mistake that can lead to uneven texture.
- Simmer Gently: Let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally until it thickens. You are looking for a creamy consistency that takes about seven minutes. Keep an eye on it; nobody likes overcooked oats that turn mushy!
- Turn Off Heat & Fluff: Once the oats look just right, turn off the heat and let it sit for a minute. You will notice them puffing up a little as they finish absorbing the liquid. This little rest is key to a great texture, so do not skip it!
- Serve & Add Toppings: Scoop the oatmeal into bowls and get creative with your favorite toppings! You will want to see a colorful presentation that smells amazing. Just be cautious with extra sweeteners, especially if you are watching sugar levels.
Notes
- Storage Tips: Leftover oatmeal can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat with a splash of water or milk to regain creaminess.
- Expert Tips: Use gluten-free oats if needed. Do not forget the salt to enhance the flavor. Stick to a 1:2 ratio of oats to liquid for best results.
- Reheating Instructions: Reheat leftover oatmeal on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a little liquid if necessary.
- Serving Suggestions: Top with fresh fruit and nuts for added nutrition. Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt for creaminess. Pair with a side of hardboiled eggs for protein.
- Recipe Variations: Add peanut butter for extra protein. Mix in chocolate chips for a sweeter option. Incorporate chia seeds for added fiber.
- Ingredient Notes: Choose rolled oats for best texture. If using instant or quick oats, adjust the cooking time accordingly. Oat quality matters for texture; make sure to use fresh oats.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 153
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 157mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 27g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg