Here we are, nearly five full months into 2020, and it is my first post for the year! Between having baby #3 and dealing with the pandemic, things have been interesting to say the least. I have been on maternity leave for nearly 10 weeks now, and I wanted to share a “recipe” for one of my favorite and most nutritious breakfasts that I have been making at home: steel cut oatmeal.

I have always loved oatmeal. It used to be a go-to breakfast as a kid before school. As I grew older, I stopped buying the sugary flavored packets and started making plain instant oats at home with my own additions. During this maternity leave, I started taking the time to cook steel cut oats on the stovetop, and the result is SO worth the extra time! I find the texture and flavor to be superior to quick-cook oats. I always make mine with milk to add extra creaminess.

This dish is packed with healthy fats, protein, omega 3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. I love Thrive Market online for more affordable health food options! By adding a number of healthy ingredients, this comforting dish becomes a super healthy and filling breakfast, especially for breastfeeding moms!

Ingredients

1/4 cup steel cut oats

1 cup water

1 cup whole milk (or plant based milk of your choice)

3 tbsp hemp hearts

1/2 tbsp ground flaxseed

1/2 tbsp coconut oil

2 tsp cinnamon

Almond or peanut butter

1/2 cup frozen wild blueberries

1 banana sliced

Unsweetened shredded coconut

Directions

In a saucepan, bring the water to a boil and then add the oats, hemp hearts, ground flaxseed, and coconut oil. Let boil on medium heat, then add milk and allow it to simmer on medium-low heat.

After about 10 minutes, add frozen blueberries and cinnamon. Continue to simmer until oats are soft (they may still have a slight bite to them). You can add a little more water during the cooking process if it is getting too dry.

Pour into a bowl and add sliced banana, nut butter, and shredded coconut. Of course you can add whatever fruits and toppings you prefer!

I find the banana adds just enough sweetness, but if you like, you can always add a drizzle of pure honey or maple syrup for some sweetness.

Enjoy!