There has long been a raging argument over the best way to make oatmeal. Stay with me now, I know that many people don't like oatmeal. Try this way some time and maybe it'll change your mind. I learned this way years ago and it is the only way I'll eat it. In our busy lives, my wife and I always have breakfast together on weekends. Sunday is bacon and eggs, very basic with the bacon done on George Foreman and the eggs poached, both being a very low fat way to do it. On Saturday, we usually start with oatmeal. Here goes.
I think that most people probably use instant oatmeal. This method does not. Start with thick cut (I use organic) oats.
The ingredients: 1 cup thick cut organic oats
2 cups water
1 Tbsp cardamon powder
1 Tbsp Allspice
1 Tbsp Ginger powder
1 Tbsp ground Cinnamon
1 large handful of raisins (your choice, I use flame raisins)
1 large handful of walnuts
Maple syrup to taste
Milk to taste
The instructions: It is very important to follow the sequence as written here. It is the only way to reproduce what I am talking about.
In a small saucepan add the spices, raisins and water. (It is important to add the raisins in the beginning so they become rehydrated. This will change your attitude about raisins.) Bring to a boil. Stir in the oats and turn the heat way down. Simmer (very slowly) uncovered, till the water is incorporated into the oats (about ten minutes, but watch it. We don't want them to become dry). Turn off the heat, cover and let sit for a few minutes. No stirring is done during the cooking process!!!! (very important). Now stir to thoroughly mix the raisins. Turn into bowls (serves two nicely). Finish off with the sweetener of your choice (I love maple syrup here). Put in half a handful of walnuts per bowl and add milk to taste. Stir and enjoy. If the directions are followed carefully, it will be the best oatmeal you've ever had, and you'll never go back to instant.
Thanks for reading.
David Helm, Bellingham, Washington
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