Upon my first bite of this oatmeal, I may have shouted out the f-word.
The explosion of flavor was too much for my brain to comprehend. The only option was to utter an expletive.
I figured it would be good as I made it (why else would I even try it?). I had absolutely no idea it would be that good. That captivating. That delicious. That intriguing.
The oatmeal itself is a simple recipe that you could use whenever, and you could top it with just about anything, such as Apple Cider Reduction Sauce or Berry Ginger Sauce. This time, I topped it with an easy, homemade Cherry-Rhubarb Compote that f***ing stole the show.
Yep, I did it again. I can’t help it.
Rhubarb is usually paired with strawberry, and nobody can deny that it’s a powerhouse combo. However, I wanted to switch things up and try it with cherry. Friends, it is a win. A WIN! The cherry is flavorful enough to complement the rhubarb, but subtle enough (way milder than a strawberry) to let the rhubarb do its thing.
What you'll need:
- 1/2 cup diced rhubarb (1/2-inch pieces)
- 1/2 cup diced cherries (frozen or fresh)
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (1/2 a small lemon)
- 3/4 cup milk of choice
- 1/4 cup quick cook steel cut oatmeal (I use Country Choice Organic)
- 1/2 a zucchini or yellow squash, grated
- 2 tsp maple syrup (optional, I omitted)
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
- pinch of salt
How to make it:
- Combine the ingredients for the compote in a small saucepan with 3 tbsp water. Bring to a simmer and stir occasionally until fruit becomes soft and liquid evaporates and thickens.
- While compote is cooking, prepare oatmeal in another saucepan. Bring milk (I used 1/2 cup almond milk and 1/4 cup water) to a boil, add oats, and reduce heat to medium. (If you’d like to add a teaspoon of flax or chia seeds, do so now.)
- Add grated zucchini/squash (alternatively, you can puree it instead of grate it). Stir occasionally.
- Once more of the liquid has absorbed, add maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Stir. Add more maple syrup if necessary.
- When you’re pleased with the consistency of the oatmeal, transfer to a bowl. Top with Cherry-Rhubarb Compote and any other additional ingredients (coconut, nuts, dried fruit, etc.).
Just an FYI:
Cherry-Rhubarb Compote could be divided into two servings (if you're willing to have less).
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