Oatmeal Master Recipe With Variations

Choose old fashioned oats, not instant for the most fiber and nutrients. Adapted from rachael ray's yum-o family cookbook.

Mix the oatmeal , milk , and 4 cups water in a large , deep saucepan and bring to a boil over medium high heat.

When it boils , quickly turn the heat down to very low.

Stir in brown sugar , dried fruits , and salt and cook at a low simmer for 15-20 minutes , or until very thick and creamy.

Stir often to prevent bottom of pan from burning.

Serve with additional milk , or cool and chill to reheat later in the week.

Variations:.

Apple cinnamon oatmeal:.

Swap 2 granny smith apples , peeled , cored , and chopped for the dried fruit add 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon , plus more for serving.

Banana nut oatmeal:.

Swap 1 / 2 cup pure maple syrup for the brown sugar and 2 bananas , chopped , for the dried fruit.

old fashioned oats, milk, brown sugar, dried dates, raisins, salt