Homemade Instant Oatmeal Mix

 We all know those instant oatmeal packs in the breakfast isle in the grocery store and, lets be honest, we've all used them. Unfortunately, they are not the best breakfast choice. In my opinion , they give a healthy food a bad reputation. They are often filled with way too much sugar, preservatives, thickeners , and unnecessary additives. And to top it all off , those pouches are tiny. I've never seen a person eat one of those and stay full until lunchtime.
 So in the past year or so I have been making my own instant oatmeal mix at home. It takes only a few minutes to put together and it is very versatile , since it does not limit you to any one flavor profile. I've decided to share my basic mix recipe and some of my favorite add-ons with you. Feel free to make it your own and don't forget to share your delicious ideas.


BASIC OATMEAL MIX RECIPE:

3/4 to 1 cup quick oats ( choose gluten free, if this is a concern)
1 tablespoon chia seeds
1 tablespoon raw pumpkin seeds*
1 tablespoon raw sunflower seeds*
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, or more to taste

* for a greater nutritional punch use sprouted seeds.


 Just in case you think you might get bored with this, here are some of my favorite toppings :

1. Make it a classic : add some warm plant milk (usually I do this at home) , cinnamon and maple syrup (or sweetener of you choice)
2. Go tropical :  add shredded coconut,  dried/fresh pineapple,mango and bananas 
   
3. Go superfood:  add some goji berries, hemp seeds and raw cacao powder
4. Go seasonal: add some pumpkin puree or apple butter, and a dash of pumpkin pie spice
5. Go savory: omit the cinnamon and add some leftover roasted veggies, sauteed greens and a dash of turmeric. 
6. My everyday favorite: Basic mix with frozen berries, walnuts and agave syrup.

Mix and match, or make it new and completely your own. Oatmeal is a healthy food we should have often and some even say everyday. So take the guesswork out of breakfast and have fun. Bon appetit!