Perfect Stovetop Oatmeal

Among the recipes that friends and family ask about most frequently – including how to make a proper pot of rice, how to boil eggs perfectly, or how to cook perfect chicken breast every time – how to make a decent pot of oatmeal is always up there on the list.

It seems that every home cook is chasing that elusive ideal pot of oatmeal: thick but not mushy, and fluffy but not chewy. Making good oatmeal can happen without much brain power (even while you’re still waiting for the coffee to brew) — this recipe will show you just how to do it.

• Use your stovetop for perfectly thick and fluffy oatmeal. There are so many ways to cook oatmeal, but the stovetop gives you the most control.
• It has the right ratio of water to oats. Think of cooking oatmeal as you would other whole grains. Amounts matter and they can make a world of a difference.

• Old-fashioned rolled oats: This recipe calls for old-fashioned rolled oats, which cook faster than steel-cut oats, absorb more liquid, and hold their shape relatively well during cooking. 
• Water: You’ll need 3 cups of water.
• Toppings (optional): Use your favorite toppings, like honey, maple syrup, or brown sugar.

1. Bring the water to a boil first. You want a three-to-two ratio of water to rolled oats. Bringing the water to a boil before you add the oats keeps them from absorbing too much water.
2. Add the oats at a simmer. Once boiling, drop the temp down to a gentle simmer and add the oats. Simmer for three minutes, stirring here and there. Then shut off the heat and move the pot off the burner.
3. Cover and rest for five minutes. This is where the magic happens: Let the oats absorb the water without stirring or simmering. Perfect oatmeal is just ahead, so get your toppings ready.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

A classic bowl of oatmeal might have a little knob of butter, melting slowly into the nooks a crannies; a splash of sweet cream; and just a sprinkling of dark brown sugar. But oatmeal is the ultimate blank canvas. Here are some delicious toppings ideas to try:

• Warm Cinnamon Apples
• Homemade Maple Butter
• Candied Walnuts
• Pumpkin Butter
• Fresh Fig Jam