Deceptively Delicious Oatmeal

Stop everything! If you love oatmeal for breakfast, you simply MUST try this delectable treat! It comes from one of my favorite cookbooks: "Deceptively Delicious" by Jessica Seinfeld. The premise behind the deception is that there are pureed fruits and/or veggies in every dish, so that your child (or husband) is getting the nourishment they need.

We LOVE breakfast. The problem is, if we eat cold cereal-- though it's quick and easy-- we're usually hungry again in just a few hours. Oatmeal is great and fills our tummies, but it can get boring day after day. So, if you agree, try this:

1 C nonfat (skim) milk
1/4 C firmly packed light or dark brown sugar
1/4 C canned pumpkin or sweet potato puree
1 tsp pure vanilla extract (optional)
1/4 tsp cinnamon or pumpkin pie spice
1 C old fashioned oats
2 tsp natural peanut butter (option, but give it a try!)
dried fruits and nuts (optional)

In a small saucepan, combine the milk, sugar, pumpkin, vanilla- if using, and spice. Bring to a gentle boil and stir in the oatmeal. Reduce the heat and simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, until the oatmeal is soft and creamy. Sir in the peanut butter, if using. Spoon the oatmeal into bowls, sprinkle with dried fruits and nuts, if you like, and serve with warm maple syrup. (We've never had it with the syrup... it's always plenty sweet without!)

Enjoy!