How do you cook oats?

Cooking oats requires some simple steps. Here's a basic method for preparing stovetop oats:

Ingredients:

- Rolled oats

- Water or milk (or a combination)

- Salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Measure the Oats:

- Use 1:2 ratio of oats to liquid (for example, 1 cup oats to 2 cups liquid).

2. Combine Ingredients:

- In a medium saucepan, combine the oats, liquid, and a pinch of salt (if desired).

3. Bring to a Boil:

- Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to boil.

4. Reduce Heat and Simmer:

- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let the oats simmer for 5-10 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the oats are tender.

5. Stir Occasionally:

- During simmering, stir the oats gently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

6. Adjust Consistency:

- If the oats are too thick for your preference, add more liquid (water or milk) and continue simmering until you reach your desired consistency.

7. Remove from Heat:

- Once the desired consistency is reached, remove the saucepan from the heat.

8. Let It Rest:

- Let the oats rest covered for a few minutes to allow them to fully absorb the liquid.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

- Transfer the cooked oats to individual serving bowls and enjoy them with your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruits, nuts, seeds, honey, or spices.

Tips:

- For a creamy texture, use whole milk instead of water.

- For a more wholesome flavor, toast the oats briefly in a dry skillet before cooking.

- If you prefer a microwave method, combine the oats, liquid, and salt in a microwave-safe bowl and microwave for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring at 30-second intervals, until the oats are done.

Remember that cooking times may vary depending on the type and brand of oats used, so adjust as needed based on your preferences.