Start by measuring out your oats and liquid ingredients. Precision matters, especially with grains. Always opt for steel cut oats instead of rolled oats for that wonderful chewy texture.

In a medium saucepan, combine the 3 cups of filtered water and 1 cup of your chosen milk. You can use any milk here—almond, coconut, or regular dairy all work well.

Set your saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the liquid to a brisk boil. Keep an eye on it; you don’t want it to boil over! Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Once boiling, add 1 cup of steel cut oats and ¼ teaspoon of sea salt. This is where you’ll start to see the transformation! The salt amplifies the flavors, making each bite more delightful.

Reduce the heat to a low setting and cover the saucepan. Let it simmer, stirring occasionally, for about 20 to 30 minutes. You want the oats to soften and absorb the liquid but keep that signature chew.

After your oats are cooked to perfection, stir in 1 tablespoon of coconut oil or butter, along with your spice of choice. Whether you go for ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cardamom, the choice is yours. Also, add the zest from an orange or lemon to brighten the dish.

This step is optional, but if you like your oats on the sweeter side, drizzle in some maple syrup or a bit of honey. Taste before you add too much sweetness!

Spoon your delicious oatmeal into bowls and get creative! Top with 2 tablespoons of chopped dates or cranberries and sprinkle on some walnuts or almonds for added crunch. Enjoy your bowl of goodness!