Day 12: Nutella and Oatmeal

Have you ever read the book "Body for Life" by Bill Phillips? It's a very inspirational story of how he developed his exercise program that he now shares with thousands of people. The companion book "Eating for Life" is one of my favorite cookbooks. Even though I have been lazy the last couple of years and no longer follow the exercise program, I still love the recipes in "Eating for Life". One of the best is chocolate oatmeal. I made it today with Nutella, and guess what? A new favorite has been born.

Here's the ingredients list: Regular oatmeal (not instant), salt, butter, cinnamon, Nutella and milk or a milk alternative.

I am sure you all have had oatmeal at one point or another in your life, but just in case there are a few non-oatmeal eaters out there here's how it goes.

In a sauce pan combine 3 cups water with 1 tsp. salt. Bring to a boil, add 1 1/2 cups oatmeal. If you have the time, soak your oats overnight, it makes them easier to digest. I am not that organized, so my family has to live with non-soaked oats. I know they suffer at my hands.

Bring the mixture back to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes. While you are waiting you can add the cinnamon, I just dump it in because I love lots of it, but you can use a only teaspoon if you are conservative.

The add Nutella. I used 2 tablespoons for this recipe. It serves 4 people. You can add more if you wish.

Stir it all together and simmer. You can add milk or milk-like substances if it gets too dry. I usually use Almond Milk but I am out today because we kind of over did the Nutella Frappaccino's yesterday. My husband prefers to cook his oats in the milk instead of the water. Be creative, I know you can do it.

After 10 minutes it's ready to serve. I like to add a pat of butter and a teaspoon or two of brown sugar. You can also add a bit of vanilla protein powder for an extra protein boost like Bill Phillips does. It's a great way to get your kids to love their oatmeal.

Make a big batch and save your leftover oatmeal, we will use it in tomorrow's recipe!

Designer Mom