Foodie Fridays: Easy peasy breakfasts (Apple cinnamon oatmeal)

Breakfasts are usually a simple affair at home.  Hubby is usually rushing to work and doesn't have time some days except to gulp down his coffee, while I usually just like to have toast or cereal in the morning.  The same goes for the little boy, who we've noticed doesn't really eat much during his morning meal.  Most mornings, he has a cup of milk along with some cereal (Cheerios/cornflakes), yoghurt and fruits (berries/raisins), or a slice of bread with cream cheese and a little fruit.  Then on days that he's not feeling too well or teething (and can't chew much), or we're trying to rush to go somewhere, I like to give him oatmeal instead.  Here's one of my favourite oatmeal dishes that little boy loves:

Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal

Ingredients (serves one tiny tummy):

:: 3 heaped tablespoons oatmeal (We use quick-cook oatmeal for ease of preparation, but steel-cut/rolled oats are healthier versions.  Kids may not like the "rougher" texture though.)

:: 1/3 an apple, peeled and cubed

:: 2 teaspoons raisins 

:: A pinch of cinnamon

Steps:

1. Sprinkle cinnamon on apple chunks and steam for a minute (steam longer for younger kids, or omit steaming if your kids like their apples crunchy).

2. Add hot, boiling water to oatmeal, mix until desired thickness.

3. Add apple chunks and raisins to oatmeal, stir.

All done! :)  Junior J is quite ok with mild-tasting foods, so I get away with not adding stuff to my oatmeal, but if your kids prefer a sweeter version, you can mix in some apple juice or a dollop of honey (Note: Honey can only be used for kids above 1 year old, due to risk of botulism) to the oatmeal.  You can also switch out the apple with pear or other fruits, the same goes for the raisins.  

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Since I have readers asking for meal ideas for kids, we're now on the look-out for recipes for petite palates to feature on the blog!  Do you have any tried and tested recipes for meals suitable for children?  If you have some easy-to-prepare, healthy recipes for kids, do drop me an email at john(dot)jus(at)gmail(dot)com, with the ingredients, steps, and if possible, a nice sharp photo of the food!  We'll post the recipes on Fridays, with a link back to your blog if you have one... :)

Have a blessed weekend!