Old-Fashioned Oatmeal

My mom and I enjoy a hot bowl of oatmeal for breakfast several times a week, and it is seriously something that I don't think I will ever get tired of because there are so many things you can add to it! Some of my favorite flavor combinations are (1) berries + walnuts + dark chocolate, (2) bananas + pecans, (3) apples + raisins + peanut butter, and (4) peaches + walnuts. Be creative and try whatever sounds good to you (but I would highly recommend trying some melty dark chocolate in a bowl at some point).

One thing that is essential to making a healthy pot of oatmeal (that many people don't do) is to soak it overnight. I know it sounds strange at first if it's something you've never heard of, but soaking oatmeal (and all whole grains) in an acidic-water base makes it much more digestible which allows your body to utilize many more nutrients. Not many generations ago, a box of rolled oats from the grocery store had cooking directions that included soaking it overnight, and many cultures in our world today still soak their grains before they eat them. If you would like to learn more about this soaking business, there is great info here. 

OLD-FASHIONED OATMEAL (serves 3-4)
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 cup water 
- 1 TB. plain yogurt
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 tsp. salt
Your choice of:
- cinnamon
- a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup
- fresh or dried fruit
- chopped nuts or peanut butter
- dark chocolate

Combine first three ingredients in a kettle. Let set out on the counter overnight, at least 7 hours. 
In the morning, add the additional cup of water and salt. Bring to a light boil, reduce heat, cover, and cook for 3 minutes.

Remove from heat and let set for several minutes before serving.
Stir in natural sweetener of choice, cinnamon, nuts, fruit, chocolate, or whatever your heart desires :)

Are you an oatmeal-eater?
What's your favorite thing to add it it?