Maple Oatmeal with Dried Fruit and Granola
Diane Rossen Worthington

 

Maple Oatmeal with Dried Fruit and Granola

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So it's the dead of winter, and you've sworn off overeating and overdrinking. The holiday binge is over and you want to feel good. Think whole grains, more vegetables, low-fat dairy and more fish and poultry than meat, and you'll be ahead of the game. And don't forget that, according to many nutritionists, breakfast is the most important meal of the day.

Nothing seems as satisfying when it's cold outside as a warming bowl of cereal that is fast and easy to prepare. This is my pick for dressed-up oatmeal. Combining quick-cook oatmeal with your favorite store-bought granola gives a wonderful contrast of textures. Whole grain everything seems to be doctor's orders these days. Fortunately, you can find quick-cook steel-cut oatmeal that substantially reduces cooking time.

If you prefer to use regular steel cut oats, increase the cooking time as the box indicates. You may also need to adjust the measurements of the oatmeal to the liquid. You can use other dried fruits such as raisins, currants or apricots. Look for a good quality (B) maple syrup that will give the cereal a rich, rounded flavor. Make sure to select a large saucepan, as the milk can boil over if the temperature becomes too high. Have everything but the milk measured out the night before and this will take just a few minutes from the stove to the table.

Maple Oatmeal with Dried Fruit and Granola

Serves 4.

4 cups low-fat or skim milk

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/3 cup maple syrup

1 1/3 cups quick-cooking steel oats oatmeal

1/2 cup sweetened dried mixed fruit

1/2 cup store-bought granola

Extra maple syrup, for serving

Warm milk, for serving

1. Combine the milk, vanilla, cinnamon and syrup in a large saucepan on medium heat. Whisk to blend the ingredients. Bring the milk to a simmer.

2. Add the oatmeal. Cook, stirring constantly, for about 5 to 7 minutes or until the desired thickness and texture. Add the dried fruit and granola, and mix to combine and cook another minute. Spoon into individual shallow bowls and serve immediately with maple syrup and warm milk on the side.

Breakfast, American