Warming bowls of gruel are cheap and easy

Think of this recipe as a guideline. Add cheese, different proteins and your favourite vegetables.

Serves: 2

■ 3 cups (750 mL) water

■ 1 cup (250 mL) old-fashioned rolled oats

■ 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) salt

■ 2 tbsp (30 mL) olive oil

■ 2 cups (500 mL) sliced, fresh button mushrooms

■ 1 cup (250 mL) cooked, shredded chicken

■ 1 cup (250 mL) coarsely chopped fresh spinach

■ 1 green onion, thinly sliced

1. Bring the water, oats and salt to a boil in a pot that will hold all the ingredients comfortably. Cover and simmer for 9 minutes.

2. Heat the oil on high in a frying pan that will hold the mushrooms comfortably. Add the mushrooms and cook, stirring frequently until they soften.

3. When the oats hit the 9-minute mark, add the mushrooms, chicken and spinach. Cook for 2 minutes to wilt the spinach and heat the chicken.

4. Transfer to bowls and garnish with the green onion.