Back in my Tokyo Terrace days, I had a recipe for Apple Pie Oatmeal that was well-loved. It seems strange to have a recipe like that on a blog based in Japan, but I missed the flavors of home and would try to recreate them with the ingredients I could find at the Tokyo grocery stores. This recipe worked beautiful. Not only did our little apartment fill with the scent of cinnamon and apples, but I had something to eat that felt like a warm hug and gave me fuel for days spent teaching elementary school or exploring the city.
I hope you’ll make this, no matter where you are, and think of what makes fall special to you.
Simple Apple Pie Oatmeal
Makes 2 serving
This is a 2 serving recipe, but is easily doubled.
1 small/medium apple, washed and cut into a large dice
1 teaspoon butter or ghee
2 cups water
1 cup old fashioned oats
pinch of salt
2 teaspoons cinnamon (I like LOTS of cinnamon, so feel free to adjust this amount to suit you)
1 tablespoon maple syrup
optional toppings: nut butter, sliced almonds, orange zest, cream, maple syrup…
In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the apples and cook until slightly softened.
Add 2 cups water and bring to a strong simmer. Stir in the oats and pinch of salt, along with the cinnamon.
Cook 10-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until oats are cooked. Stir in the 1 tablespoon maple syrup and top as desired. Cozy up and enjoy!