Sunday Morning Oatmeal--Barefoot Contessa Ina Garten

Hootenanny's Note:

This recipe came from the Barefoot Contessa and I have made it several times. It's very creamy and satisfying. If you are going to make it with the fresh banana slices, you must eat it the same day. I always use 1% milk, because I never have whole milk on hand. The stir-ins, fruits, nuts, are flexible, whatever you like, and whatever you have on hand.

• Total Time: 20 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 10 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 4

• 1 1/2 cups whole milk
• 1 1/2 cups quick oats
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 banana, sliced
• 1/2 cup dried cherries
• 1/2 cup golden raisin
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup or 2 tablespoons brown sugar, to taste

Directions:

1. Heat milk plus 2 cups of water in a medium saucepan until it starts to simmer. Add oatmeal and salt, bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until thickened.
2. Remove from heat. Add your stir-ins: banana slices, cherries, raisins, or whatever you are using. Cover, and let stand 2 minutes. Serve hot with a drizzle of maple syrup or sprinkle of brown sugar to taste, cinnamon if desired. You may also add extra milk to taste.
3. Suggestions for stir-ins: chopped walnuts, slivered almonds, minced dried apricot, chopped apple (dried or fresh) etc.

Reviews

[Crafty Lady 13]

Yummy! Creamy goodness at its best. I used fresh blueberries in place of the dried cherries. A great way to start your day. Healthy and delicious. Made for PAC Spring 2013.

[babajeanR]

I make this as stated, but only half the recipe, and I use skim milk. I added the banana, raisins, cherries plus some sliced almonds. I'm going to try it with other fruits soon. Peaches, apples, berries, etc. Plus different nuts. Even with the skim milk it is still very creamy, rich, and satisfying. With cooler mornings finally here it will be just what we need to start our day.

[jorgydee]

When I was younger mom made porridge every morning and I swore when I got old enough to say NO MORE I would and I did. When I was older and you know the cholestrol worry I desided to revisit the porridge idea only I cooked it with 1% milk instead of water like my mom did. Equal parts milk to oatmeal. My add ins are frozen raspberries, handful of slivered almonds, 2 tbsp flax meal, 1/2 cup Fibre One and a couple of tbsp of Splenda, no extra milk I like my porridge the consistency of warm pudding. Call me crazy. Excellent recipe.