Steel-Cut Oatmeal with Fruit

Chewy steel-cut oats simmer in a measured water ratio, rest covered until creamy, and meet fresh berries, banana, milk, and a little sweetness in each warm bowl.

40 min

4 bowls

Warm steel-cut oatmeal topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries, banana, and a light pour of milk.

Ingredients

1 cup steel-cut oats

4 cups water

1/2 tsp fine salt

1/2 cup whole milk, plus more for serving

1 cup strawberries, hulled and sliced

1 cup blueberries

1 medium banana, sliced

Equipment

Medium heavy saucepan · Wooden spoon · Measuring cups · Lid

Keep oats loose

Steel-cut oats continue to absorb liquid as they stand, so stir in hot water a little at a time if the grains thicken before turning tender.

Fruit stays separate

Store plain oats separately and slice the banana close to serving; fresh fruit keeps its texture and color on the warm porridge.

Simmer the oats

01. Combine oats, water, and salt in a heavy saucepan; bring to a steady boil over medium-high heat.

02. Simmer uncovered about 25 minutes over medium-low, stirring every few minutes; add hot water in 1/4-cup splashes if the grains are still firm after the pot thickens.

Rest and sweeten

03. Turn off the heat, cover, and rest for 5 minutes so the grains finish softening.

04. Stir in brown sugar and milk for the default version; if using maple syrup, leave out the brown sugar and drizzle syrup over each bowl.

Add fruit and serve

05. Rinse and dry berries, slice the strawberries, and cut the banana close to serving so the fruit stays fresh.

06. Spoon warm oats into four bowls, top with the fruit, and add a little milk and the chosen sweetener.

Make ahead and reheat

07. Cool extra plain oats promptly and refrigerate covered for up to 4 days; keep fruit whole or separate.

08. Warm oats over low heat with a splash of water or milk, stirring until creamy, then add fresh fruit.