Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is quick to prepare, highly nutritious, and offers a perfect balance of complex carbohydrates, fiber, and natural sweetness. It’s customizable to dietary preferences and tastes delicious both warm and cold.
Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need
Medium saucepan Grater Cutting board and knife Measuring cups and spoons Wooden spoon or spatula
Tips for Success
Grate the carrots finely for quicker cooking and better texture integration. Don’t rush the cooking process—allowing the oats to simmer properly ensures the perfect creamy consistency.
Ingredients
1 cup rolled oats 2 cups milk or water (or a combination) 1 medium apple, diced 1 medium carrot, finely grated 2 tablespoons maple syrup or honey 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg Pinch of salt Optional toppings: chopped walnuts, raisins, or a dollop of yogurt
Directions
- In a medium saucepan, combine the rolled oats with milk or water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low and add the grated carrot, stirring to combine. Let simmer for about 3 minutes.
- Add the diced apple, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the pot. Continue to cook for another 3-5 minutes until the oats are creamy and the carrot and apple have softened but still retain some texture.
- Remove from heat and stir in the maple syrup or honey.
- Serve warm in bowls and add your choice of optional toppings.
Additional Tips or Variations
For a dairy-free version, use almond, oat, or coconut milk. Steel-cut oats can be substituted for a chewier texture, but will require longer cooking time. Add a tablespoon of chia seeds or ground flaxseed for extra nutrition. For a protein boost, stir in a tablespoon of almond butter or add a scoop of protein powder after cooking.