Simple breakfast -- got 24 hours?

I admit, my eye-catching title sure doesn't make it sound simple, but trust me, this is the easiest healthy breakfast you could possibly create.

I have been experimenting with oatmeal in the slow cooker, and I have gotten it down to a science. It is not only convenient, but it is also the healthiest way to cook oatmeal to get all of the nutritional benefits. It is not just about the ingredients; the process is important in boosting the nutrition of this yummy breakfast.

Are you ready for the simple steps to the best oatmeal you could ever eat?

1. The morning before you plan on eating the oatmeal, put the ingredients into your slow cooker and allow them to soak all day.
Ingredients:
- 1 c. whole oats
- 3 c. water
- 1/2 c. organic whole milk yogurt, plain
- 1 c. dried fruit (try to find unsulfured and unsweetened or fruit sweetened)

Why would you do such a thing as to soak your grains? The yogurt interacts with the oats, causing the anti-nutrients to dissipate, leaving a more digestible grain and boosting vitamin content, especially B vitamins.

2. Before bed, set your slow cooker to low. You want the oatmeal to cook about 7-9 hours, so plan your bedtime and waking time accordingly.

3. Wake up to your delicious breakfast! You want to try to serve this oatmeal with a little fat, which helps the nutrients absorb better. Swirl in some unrefined coconut oil, a little whole milk yogurt, flax or hemp seed oil or even some organic butter.

Did I mention all of the amazing benefits of this breakfast, besides the nutrition?

Convenient -- It is hot and ready for you when you wake up, smelling up the house with its hearty aroma.
Variable -- You can change it up so it is never the same oatmeal twice. Use different dried fruits, add nuts and seeds before serving, even swirl in more yogurt.
Cheap -- Oh, it is cheap to make (buy whole oats in bulk) and there is no packaging to clutter up the house and the environment.
Portable -- It can be portable -- just stick it in a thermos, coffee cup, container of choice and eat it on the run.

If you try this recipe, please post your variations. Together, we can create endless, delicious possibilities.