Everyone’s Favorite (Vegan) Oatmeal

Bring the water and oats to a boil in a small saucepan or pot. Reduce to a simmer and leave to cook for 3 to 4 minutes, or until slightly thick and sticky. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes more, until the milk, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt are heated through, and the desired thickness has been reached. Transfer to a serving bowl after removing from the heat. Serve immediately with your preferred toppings.

Variations

Simple Fruit and Nut Oatmeal: Top cooked oatmeal with 1/3 cup fresh fruit (sliced banana, chopped strawberries, sliced nectarine or peach, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries) and/or 2 tablespoons chopped dried fruit (peaches, apricots, apples, cherries, raisins) and/or 1 tablespoon chopped nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts, cashews, peanuts, macadamia nuts). Drizzle with more maple syrup if desired.

Cinnamon Raisin Oatmeal: Increase the cinnamon to 1½ teaspoons and stir in 1 tablespoon blackstrap molasses and 14 cup raisins before adding the milk. 1 tablespoon raisins, a drizzle of maple syrup, and/or 1 tablespoon chopped nuts can be added on top.

Oatmeal with Peanut Butter and Bananas: Add 1/3 cup sliced bananas and 1 tablespoon peanut butter when adding the milk. Drizzle with peanut butter and maple syrup and top with a few more banana slices, 1 tablespoon chopped peanuts, and drizzles of peanut butter and maple syrup. To take it over the top, add a couple of tablespoons of chocolate chips.

Double Chocolate Oatmeal: When adding the milk, stir in 2 tablespoons cocoa powder. Stir in 1 to 2 tablespoons chocolate chips after removing from the heat. Chopped nuts and/or cacao nibs can be sprinkled on top.

Fruit Pie Oatmeal: When adding the oats, add 1/3 cup chopped fruit of your choice. 1/4 cup of the same fruit and/or 1 tablespoon chopped nuts on top