Quick Strawberry-Raspberry Syrup image

Vitamin C for your overall health.

MAKES ABOUT 2¼ CUPS

THIS syrup is delicious served with any type of store-bought or homemade pancakes (here), waffles (here), French toast (here), or oatmeal. It is also a wonderful accompaniment to yogurt, frozen yogurt, or ice cream (including dairy-free and vegan brands), and it is great on top of the cheesecake (here). You can use 4 cups of one kind of berry instead of mixing strawberries and raspberries. Frozen berries work well, too. Leftovers will keep refrigerated for three days.

1 cup sugar

2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered

2 cups fresh raspberries

½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract, or to taste

• Combine the sugar and berries in a large pot. Use a potato masher or a large fork to break up the berries a bit to help thicken the syrup.

• Bring to a boil. Lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes, or until the syrup reaches your desired consistency. Remove from the heat and stir in the vanilla.

Tips for diabetes

• Reduce your portion size, or skip this recipe.

2 tablespoons berry syrup: Calories: 100 cals; Protein: 0.5 g; Carbohydrates: 25 g; Fat: 0.2 g; Fiber: 2 g; Sodium: 1 mg; Vitamin C: 23 mg; 1½ CARBS

KITCHEN WISDOM: HOW TO COOK DIFFERENT TYPES OF OATS

THE world of oats can be confusing. There are three basic types: quick-cooking, old-fashioned, and steel-cut, which are the least processed, and therefore most nutritious.

Quick-cooking oats: These thin, small flakes, which cook in a matter of minutes, are commonly eaten for breakfast. They are not suitable for granola. They are suitable for “overnight oats” usually made with equal amounts of oats and water (or dairy or plant-based milk) combined in a jar or bowl, covered, and left in the refrigerator overnight. You can also mix in raisins or dried fruit. Nuts and seeds ideally should be added at the last minute, to keep their crunch.

Rolled oats (also called old-fashioned rolled oats): These thicker, rounder flakes are also eaten as porridge. They have a longer cooking time, usually about 10 minutes over low heat. They are used in granola, crisp toppings, and other baked goods. Follow the package directions to prepare. Add your favorite fixin’s and spices to jazz things up.

Steel-cut oats: Shaped like tiny pellets, these oats take the longest to cook, about 25 minutes on a low simmer. Follow the package directions to cook. The good news is that a big batch can be cooked in advance and then reheated for breakfast throughout the week (in a microwave oven, thinned with a little water or milk, if needed).