Delectable Oatmeal with Cashew Cream

All right, I admit it. I'm super picky about my oatmeal, especially the texture. Some people serve it so dense, if feels like a lump of cement (sorry, Mom!) You know what I'm talking about, right? Or else it's too runny and flavorless. I love mine velvety smooth, yet with some lumps for chewy texture. AND, it has to be delicious!

In some circles, there's some controversy about whether grains are good for us or not. If you Google it, you'll find every conceivable opinion. I think the only true way to know is to trust your instincts and make your own decision. Experiment: if you feel bloated after having grains, maybe it's time to make some adjustments. Personally, I have cut out all processed, white grain products, but continue to periodically and seasonally consume some whole grains like oatmeal, quinoa, millet, brown rice, and buckwheat (which is technically not a grain.) I listen to my body and prefer oatmeal on a cold day, once in a while. Not every day.

Patients on the anti-cancer Gerson Therapy consume oatmeal for breakfast along with a huge amount of organic vegetable juices. So, you need to decide this for yourself. I discovered some AWESOME things to do to oatmeal to make it scrumptiously delicious. As always, I encourage you to experiment, but here is my favorite.

It’s so easy!

INGREDIENTS

• 1 c. organic oat flakes (get gluten-free if this is an issue for you.)

• 1 c. water

• 1 c. home-made almond milk (see recipe) or other nut milk

• 1/2 tsp ghee (clarified butter) or coconut oil

• 5 drops Vanilla Creme Stevia drops

• Dash of cinnamon

TO DO:

• Place half of the oat flakes in your NutriBullet or blender. Turn them into a fine powder.

• In pot, medium heat, melt ghee or coconut oil. Add the regular oat flakes. Let them roast slightly, stirring a few moments. Add powdered oats; stir a few seconds. (Don’t let them burn!)

• Add water and almond milk (see home-made recipe here) or other nut milk. Bring to boil. Simmer on low about 15-20 minutes. It should be super creamy and smooth, with some texture.

• Add Stevia drops and cinnamon.

EXTRAS

I like to add either fresh strawberries and blueberries, or if it's cold outside, I lightly parboil them with a little bit of water. Then place them on top with crushed almonds.

I also LOVE to add a dollop of home-made cashew cream. It is beyond delectable! Here's how to make this ridiculously simple yet delicious concoction.

CASHEW CREAM (see full blog here.)

• 1 c. soaked raw cashews. (or if in a pinch, boil about 2 c. water. Pour over 1 c. raw cashews. Let soak about 15 minutes.)

• Place cashews in NutriBullet or other such device.

• Add a dash of real maple syrup and cinnamon.

• Add a bit of hot water or nut-milk to achieve a thick, creamy texture.

• Blend for about 30 seconds.

Ta-da! All done! You will LICK the container, I swear to God.

Let me know if you come up with a fun oatmeal variation, and especially how you liked the cashew cream! It's awesome on fruit or really, on anything. Even straight!

Enjoy!