Oatmeal!

Pictured: wild blackberry oatmeal while camping in Northern Washington

Original recipe from the oatmeal box.  :)

For most days of the week, oatmeal is our breakfast of choice.  It's versatile enough for everyone to enjoy, and it's so full of fiber I always feel fantastic after eating it.

We prefer old fashioned oats for their fuller taste and more satisfying chewiness.  If a recipe calls for quick oats, they're easily made by whipping up old fashioned oats in a blender for a few seconds (don't worry--you're not creating more dishes.  Just rinse out the powder and the blender is clean!).

Ingredients for 2 cups cooked oatmeal (2 servings):

• 1 c oats
• 1 1/2 c water
• 1/4 t salt

Directions:

1. In a small saucepan, heat water and salt to boiling.  Stir in oats, reduce heat to low.  Simmer 8 min or until all water is absorbed.  Top with...anything!  Yum.

Favorite toppings and other versions:

• 1 piece or can of fruit strained and chopped, or 1/2-1 c berries or raisins
• milk or cream or yogurt
• molasses (a family fav): 1/2-1 T per serving
• honey: 1/2 T per serving
• jam: 1 T per serving 
• fresh or frozen fruit to taste
• applesauce and cinnamon to taste
• sugar or brown sugar
• fried egg and avocado 
• ready-mix cinnamon sugar 
• protein oatmeal
• breakfast quinoa