Ever notice how in the United States the consistency of most oatmeal falls somewhere between wall plaster and grout? The things we do to those poor oats. There oughta be a law! As a result, we often resort to the culinary equivalent of wallpapering, covering up the abomination with butter and brown sugar. This is a shame, because oatmeal just needs a little love to deliver a heartwarming, nutritious meal. The best oatmeal recipe is akin to a two-part harmony, pairing solid prep with inspiring spices to yield a joyous anytime song. Part of the trick is to soak the oats overnight, so plan ahead. Top this with fruit compote or nuts, and you’ll never again wonder why oatmeal isn’t used as an industrial adhesive.
Recipe information
Yield
serves 2
Ingredients
Preparation
Step 1
Place the oats in a pan or bowl with the lemon juice and water to cover and soak overnight.
Step 2
Drain the oats in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse well under cold running water. Combine the oats, water, and salt in a saucepan and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cover, lower the heat, and stir in the dried fruit, cinnamon, ginger, and cardamom. Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, for 10 minutes. The oatmeal will become very creamy as the water evaporates. For less-moist oatmeal, leave the lid off for the last 3 to 4 minutes of cooking. Stir in the maple syrup and milk (if using) and serve garnished with toasted nuts or a dollop of compote if you like.
variation
Step 3
Try substituting quinoa for the rolled oats for a nutrition-packed alternative.
rebecca’s notes
Step 4
Our ancestors had it right. Before they cooked their oatmeal, they soaked it overnight in a bowl of water and lemon juice. Why lemon juice? Because its acids help break down the outer shell of the oats. This makes their nutrients more avialable and also gives them a creamier texture. For the best taste and nutrition, go with organic rolled oats or organic steel-cut oats, which are popular in Ireland and Scotland.
storage
Step 5
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 days.
nutrition information
Step 6
(per serving)
Step 7
Calories: 220
Step 8
Total Fat: 2.7g (0g saturated, 0g monounsaturated)
Step 9
Carbohydrates: 42g
Step 10
Protein: 7g
Step 11
Fiber: 5g
Step 12
Sodium: 295mg
