Fruit and Nut Oatmeal
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Ingredients
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1 cup rolled oats
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2 cups water or milk
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1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon salt
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1/4 cup chopped nuts, such as walnuts, pecans, or almonds
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1/4 cup dried fruit, such as raisins, cranberries, or apricots
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1/4 cup fresh fruit, such as berries, bananas, or apples
Directions
Locate a medium saucepan with a heavy bottom that distributes heat evenly. This will prevent scorching and ensure your oatmeal cooks through consistently.
Measure out the oats and pour them into the saucepan. Add the cinnamon and a pinch of salt. Stir these dry ingredients together to evenly distribute the spices among the oats.
Next, pour in your chosen liquid, either water or milk. Be sure to measure out the full two cups to guarantee a good oatmeal-to-liquid ratio.
Place the saucepan over medium heat on your stovetop. Keep an eye on the pot as the oatmeal heats up. You'll see the liquid begin to simmer and gentle bubbles will form on the surface.
Once the oatmeal reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low. This is where the magic happens—the oats will soften and absorb the liquid, creating a creamy texture.
Set a timer for 5 minutes. This is the average amount of time it takes for rolled oats to cook through and reach a desirable consistency. Steel-cut oats may require a slightly longer simmering time, around 15-20 minutes.
As the oatmeal simmers, don't leave it completely unattended. Every minute or two, give the oatmeal a gentle stir with a spoon. This helps prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan and ensures even cooking.
Pay attention to the consistency of the oatmeal as it simmers. As the oats absorb the liquid, they will become thicker and creamier. If the oatmeal seems to be drying out too quickly, you can add a splash of additional water or milk, a tablespoon at a time, to maintain the desired texture.
The ideal oatmeal texture is a matter of personal preference. Some people enjoy a thicker oatmeal, while others prefer it to be looser and more porridge-like. Experiment with the simmering time and the amount of liquid added to find your perfect consistency.
Once the 5-minute timer goes off (or when your oatmeal has reached your desired consistency), it's time to incorporate the delicious toppings! Remove the saucepan from the heat.
Add the chopped nuts and dried fruit of your choice directly to the hot oatmeal. Stir them gently to combine everything evenly. The heat from the oatmeal will soften the dried fruit and release their flavors.
If using fresh fruit, wait to add it until just before serving. This prevents the fruit from becoming mushy while the oatmeal simmers
