Whole Grain Oatmeal Recipe

Here’s a simple and nutritious recipe for whole grain oatmeal that’s perfect for kids!

Ingredients:

1 cup whole rolled oats (or steel-cut oats for more texture)
2 cups water (or milk for creamier oatmeal; you can use almond, oat, or cow’s milk)
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional for flavor)
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Pinch of salt (optional, enhances flavor)
Toppings (customize as you like):
    Fresh fruit (bananas, berries, apples)
    Nuts or seeds (almonds, walnuts, chia seeds)
    Nut butters (peanut, almond, or sunflower)
    Honey or maple syrup (optional for sweetness)
    Yogurt (for added creaminess and probiotics)

Instructions:

Boil water or milk: In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water (or milk) to a boil.

Add oats: Stir in the whole rolled oats and reduce heat to a simmer.

Cook oats: Let the oats simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the oats absorb most of the liquid and reach your desired consistency. (For steel-cut oats, simmer for about 20-30 minutes.)

Add flavorings: Stir in cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt if using.

Serve: Remove from heat. Divide the oatmeal into bowls and let the kids choose their toppings.

Customize: Add fresh fruits like sliced bananas, berries, or apple chunks, sprinkle with nuts or seeds, drizzle with nut butter or a bit of honey, and even top with yogurt for a creamy texture.

Tips:

For extra creaminess, cook with half milk and half water.
You can batch-cook oatmeal and refrigerate it for up to 4 days, reheating with a splash of milk or water.

This whole grain oatmeal is packed with fiber, healthy fats, and vitamins, making it a perfect meal to start the day!