Oatmeal Spice Recipe

This warmly spiced oatmeal combines rolled oats with cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. It makes a simple breakfast that can be customized with fruit, nuts, or your preferred sweetener.

Ingredients

Makes 2 servings.

• 1 cup rolled oats
• 2 cups milk, water, or a combination of both
• 1 small apple, grated or finely diced
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 small pinch ground cloves
• 1 small pinch salt
• 1 to 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey, to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

1. Combine the oats, milk or water, apple, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, and salt in a small saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat and cook for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring frequently, until the oats are tender and the oatmeal reaches your preferred consistency.
4. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Stir in the maple syrup or honey and vanilla.
5. Divide between bowls and serve warm.

Optional Toppings

• Chopped walnuts or pecans
• Sliced banana or fresh berries
• Raisins or dried cranberries
• Pumpkin or sunflower seeds
• A spoonful of yogurt or nut butter
• An extra sprinkle of cinnamon

Useful Tips

• For thinner oatmeal, add a little more milk or water before serving.
• For a creamier texture, prepare the oats entirely with milk and stir frequently while they cook.
• Taste before adding more cloves or nutmeg, as both spices can quickly overpower the oatmeal.
• Refrigerate leftovers in a covered container and reheat them with a splash of liquid.