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A steel-cut oat is a whole grain "groat" that has been cut into small pieces. Unlike rolled or instant oats, steel-cut oats haven't been partially pre-cooked, so they retain more of their natural taste, texture and nutrients.

They take longer to cook compared to quick oats, about 20 minutes in total. But that's OK (that's why we're making them ahead), the nutty flavor and chewy texture are worth it. And this type of oatmeal can be reheated without losing its chew!

Steel-cut oatmeal will last up to five days in the fridge, so make a big batch! When you're crazy busy in the morning, you'll be glad you did. It's a satisfying breakfast that will keep you feeling comfortably full until your mid-morning break.

Delicious steel-cut oatmeal toppings:

--Dried Fruit: blueberries, currents, raisins, apricots, cranberries, coconut.

--Nuts and seeds: walnuts, pecans, almonds, peanuts, sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds.

--Non-dairy: almond milk, soy milk, rice milk.

--Sweeteners: dark chocolate chips, maple syrup, brown sugar, agave.

--Fresh or frozen fruit: fruit salad, peaches, raspberries, grated apple, frozen blueberries (the heat from the oatmeal thaws them quickly).

Make-Ahead Steel-Cut Oats

Makes 3 cups of steel-cut oatmeal

Serves 3 to 4

4 cups water

1 cup steel-cut oats

Salt

1. Bring water to a boil in a medium pot over high heat.

2. Stir in steel-cut oats and a pinch of salt.

3. Reduce heat to medium. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 20 minutes.

4. Cover, remove from heat, and let stand for a few minutes.

5. Enjoy with toppings, or cool and store covered in the fridge.

To reheat steel-cut oatmeal:

Transfer a scoop of oatmeal to a microwaveable bowl and microwave on high for 1 to 2 minutes. Or, transfer a scoop of oatmeal to a small pot with a splash of water. Heat over low heat, stirring often until warmed through.

Tasty tips

--You can find steel-cut oats at most grocery stores, usually next to boxed oatmeal or in the British/international isle (especially if the oats are labeled as Irish Oatmeal). If you can't find them, try a bulk food store; they usually have it, and for a great price!

--To tell if steel-cut oats are done cooking, taste them. You can slightly under-cook, or over-cook the oats depending on how much chew you like.

--Steel-cut oats give you 100 percent whole grains, not partially hydrogenated oils, artificial flavors, artificial colors or unnecessary amounts of sugar and salt.

--If the oats start to stick to the bottom of the pan as they cook, remove the pot from the stove for a minute and then give a good stir. The oats will magically lift from the bottom of the pan.

(Kary Osmond is a Canadian recipe developer and former television host of the popular daytime cooking show "Best Recipes Ever." Her easy recipes include helpful tips to guide you along the way, and her love of plant-based cooking offers healthy alternatives to some of your favorite dishes. Learn more at www.karyosmond.com.)