Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

                                                Breakfast. The most important meal of the day.

Too bad most of us are so busy in the mornings we are lucky if we can scarf down a quick coffee and muffin and still make it to work on time...

Well that problem is solved, thanks to this recipe!

             Overnight Slow Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a great way to start the day, especially steel cut oats. Oats are rich in fiber, and the steel cut variety have a lower glycemic index, leaving you feeling full and satisfied longer. Other forms of oats, such as rolled and instant oatmeal, have been processed and lose much of their nutritional value.

Eating steel cut oats regularly for breakfast can also lower cholesterol, stabilize blood sugar and decrease your risk of type 2 diabetes.

For those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, it should be noted that while oats themselves are gluten free, they are often processed in facilities that contain other gluten grains. If you are sensitive to gluten, look for 'gluten-free' on the label, such as from the Bob's Red Mill brand.

Simple ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup steel cut oats
• 3 cups water
• 1 apple chopped into small pieces
• 1 tsp cinnamon (or 1 cinnamon stick)
• Dash of nutmeg
• Dash of salt
• Optional: can use non-dairy milk to replace some of the water

Directions:

1. Grease the crockpot with coconut oil (or else the oatmeal will stick to the edges!)
   
2. Combine all ingredients in the crockpot, stir, and set on low. 
   
3. Let cook overnight (7-8 hours). 
4. Enjoy!

Set it, and forget it!

There are many things you can add after cooking to it to make it even more delicious:

• Chopped nuts (walnuts, pecans, almonds)
• Dried cranberries or raisins
• Flax, pumpkin, hemp, and/or chia seeds
• Almond/coconut/hemp milk
• Sweetener (honey, maple syrup, brown sugar)

It's also great to make a big batch to keep in the fridge, and just heat in the microwave or on the stove with a bit of your favourite type of milk when needed. 

The finished product. Mmmmm....

Have any other easy and healthy breakfast ideas? Leave a comment!

Happy breakfasting!

Dr. T