Basic Oatmeal How-To (3 Simple Recipes)

I really love oatmeal. It's not just something I eat in the winter time, and it's not something I eat once a month. I have it at least four times a week, all year round.

I had oatmeal for the first time two years ago, during my sophomore year of college. I knew I needed more soluble fiber in my diet to get my digestion issues under control, but I also wanted a low-cal option to help me lose my freshmen you-don't-even-want-to-know-how-much.



I first tried the Quaker Instant Banana Bread flavor. Wow. I can remember being a little apprehensive of it at first (so mushy!), but the flavor appealed to me, so I stuck with it. By the time I finished that box, I was hooked.

That year, when I was home for spring break, all my mom had in the pantry was the giant carton of instant Quaker oats. I was so addicted to my daily bowl of oatmeal that I was willing to try it out.

I made it like I used to make Cream of Wheat. After I took it out of the microwave, I added butter, cinnamon, and sugar. And then I tried it. And gagged. So I added chocolate. And gagged again.

Flavored oatmeal packets spoil your taste buds with artificial flavoring and tons of sugar. And if you don't know how to prepare unflavored oatmeal properly (which I didn't), it makes the transition even more appalling.

Needless to say, I have come a long way. I now find flavored oatmeal packets revolting (although I still smile as I remember my mornings in my dorm room, digging into a warm bowl of Banana Bread goodness while I checked my Facebook). And I can whip up a mean bowl of oatmeal.

So, my Christmas present from me to you:

3 Easy, Adaptable Oatmeal Recipes

Peanut Butter Oatmeal

by The Oatmeal Artist

Prep Time: 1

Cook Time: 5

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Ingredients (serves 1)

• 1 cup milk of choice, or water
• 1/2 cup regular rolled oats
• 1-2 tbsp peanut butter
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon
• pinch of salt

Instructions

Bring milk (I use an 1/2 c original almond milk and 1/2 c water) to a boil, add oats, and reduce heat to medium.

Once more of the liquid has absorbed, add cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.

Stir in peanut butter (or swap in your favorite nut butter!).

Add in any mix-ins you have on hand, such as raisins, chocolate chips, or your favorite nut.

When you're satisfied with the consistency of the oatmeal, transfer to a bowl. Serve with another splash of your milk of choice and any additional toppings (shredded coconut, banana, jelly, nuts, etc.).

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Jammin' Oatmeal

by The Oatmeal Artist

Prep Time: 1

Cook Time: 5

6051237

Ingredients (serves 1)

• 1 cup milk of choice, or water
• 1/2 cup regular rolled oats (I use Country Choice Organic)
• 1-2 spoonfuls of fruit spread/jam
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract OR 1/4 tsp almond extract
• pinch of salt

Instructions

Bring liquid (I use an equal mixture of almond milk and water) to a boil, add oats, and reduce heat to medium.

Once more of the liquid has absorbed, add a pinch of salt, a splash of either almond or vanilla extract, as well as any other spices (cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, etc.). Almond extract works really well with jams like cherry and blueberry, whereas vanilla is best with peach, strawberry, grape, etc.

Stir in a spoonful or two of your favorite fruit preserves. It will take quite a bit of stirring for the jam to "blend" with the porridge--be patient! Raspberry, peach, apricot, blueberry, and strawberry jams/jellies/preserves work beautifully in oatmeal!

If you'd like to add any additional ingredients (coconut oil, raisins, sunflower seeds), do so now.

When you're satisfied with the consistency of the oatmeal , transfer to a bowl. Serve with another splash of your milk of choice and any additional toppings (shredded coconut, nuts, etc.).

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