Maple Syrup–Infused Slow-Cooked Oatmeal

Feel free to substitute other dried fruit according to your tastes such as a tropical mix of coconut, papaya, pineapple, and mango or strawberries and blueberries. It’s even a way you can sneak some prunes into your diet.

Serves 8–10

Ingredients:

• 2 cups steel-cut Irish oats
• 5 cups water
• 1 cup apple juice
• ½ cup dried apples
• ¼ cup golden raisins
• ¼ cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ½ teaspoon salt
• Optional: Brown sugar or maple syrup
• Optional: Chopped toasted walnuts or pecans
• Optional: Milk, half and half, or heavy cream

1. Add the oats, water, apple juice, apples (cut with kitchen shears into small pieces), raisins, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt to the slow cooker and stir to mix.
2. Cover and cook on the low-heat setting for 6 to 7 hours.
3. Serve the oatmeal warm topped with brown sugar or additional maple syrup; chopped nuts; and milk, half and half, or heavy cream.

Cooking Ahead

Once the oatmeal has cooled, divide any leftovers into single-serving containers and freeze. Later, transfer the frozen oatmeal to a microwave-safe container (or better yet: freeze it in a microwave-safe container and save yourself a step!) and put it in the microwave to defrost while you get ready to start your day. Cover the bowl with a piece of paper towel (to catch any splatters), then microwave on high for 1–2 minutes and enjoy!