📖 Instructions

1. Get your ingredients ready: Before you even think about turning on the stove, gather everything you need. This will make the process smoother and prevent any mid-cooking ingredient-scrambles. Trust me, been there, done that, spilled the milk (literally!).
2. Cook the oats: In a medium saucepan, bring the hemp milk and water (if using) to a boil. This is where you can add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavors. Don't skip this step, it makes a difference!
3. Add the oats and cook: Once boiling, stir in the rolled oats. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the oats are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Nobody likes burnt oatmeal at the bottom of the pan! Tip: Watch the oats closely, especially towards the end, to prevent it from drying out.
4. Stir in the strawberries: Remove the saucepan from the heat and gently stir in about half of the sliced strawberries. Reserve the rest for topping. This is where the magic happens! The warm oats will soften the strawberries and release their sweet juices, creating a beautiful pink hue.
5. Sweeten to taste: If you like your oatmeal a little sweeter, now's the time to add a drizzle of maple syrup, honey, or agave nectar. Start with a small amount and add more to your liking. Remember, you can always add more, but you can't take it away!
6. Serve and garnish: Transfer the oatmeal to a bowl and top with the remaining sliced strawberries. You can also add a sprinkle of chia seeds, flax seeds, or a dollop of your favorite nut butter for extra nutrients and flavor. Get creative! This is your oatmeal masterpiece.
7. Enjoy immediately: This oatmeal is best enjoyed fresh while it's still warm and creamy. Grab a spoon, curl up on the couch, and savor every bite. You deserve it!