Basic Stovetop Oatmeal Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
• 2 cups milk (you can use dairy milk, almond milk, soy milk, or any milk of your choice)
• Pinch of salt
• Optional sweeteners and toppings (e.g., honey, maple syrup, brown sugar, fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, or spices like cinnamon and vanilla extract)

Instructions:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a saucepan, combine the rolled oats and milk. Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor.

2. Cook on Low Heat: Place the saucepan over medium-low heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir frequently to prevent the oats from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the oats simmer for about 5-7 minutes. Continue to stir occasionally as the oats absorb the milk and thicken.

4. Sweeten and Flavor: Once the oats reach your desired level of thickness (some like it thicker, while others prefer it runnier), remove the saucepan from heat. Add your choice of sweetener (e.g., honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar) and any flavorings (e.g., cinnamon or vanilla extract) and stir well.

5. Serve: Transfer the oatmeal to serving bowls and add your preferred toppings. Fresh fruits, nuts, and seeds are popular choices.

6. Enjoy: Serve the oatmeal hot and enjoy your wholesome breakfast!

Oatmeal Variations:

Feel free to get creative with your oatmeal by adding various ingredients to change its flavor and texture. Here are some ideas:

1. Fruit Oatmeal: Stir in sliced bananas, berries, apples, or dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for a fruity twist.

2. Nutty Oatmeal: Top your oatmeal with chopped nuts like almonds, walnuts, or pecans for added crunch and protein.

3. Spiced Oatmeal: Add ground spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a warm and comforting flavor.

4. Protein Oatmeal: Mix in protein sources like chia seeds, flax seeds, or a scoop of protein powder for an extra boost.

5. Savory Oatmeal: Instead of sweet toppings, try topping your oatmeal with sautéed vegetables, a fried egg, and a sprinkle of cheese for a savory twist.

6. Overnight Oats: Make your morning easier by preparing overnight oats. Mix oats, milk, and your desired ingredients in a jar or container, refrigerate overnight, and grab it on the go in the morning.

Oatmeal is a versatile canvas for your breakfast creativity, so don’t hesitate to experiment and tailor it to your taste preferences.