Pan-Seared Oatmeal with Warm Fruit Compote and Cider Syrup

Super tasty, different, and satisfying. Don't be tempted to skip the fruit compote -- it was a delicious addition. I did, however, skip the cider, but only because it is out of season and I couldn't get any. Would definitely try making that too if I had it, and I'll re-evaluate the rating once I try it with syrup. UPDATE: I tried it with the reduced syrup now that it's in season and it is fantastic. Cider pushed it to 5 stars. Still great with just the compote though it you can't get cider.

@suevan mentioned that she too had it at the trendy Chicago restaurant--Orange, which incidentally no longer offers it on the menu. The funny thing is that Orange had to have lifted this recipe verbatim, as the recipe was published before Orange came into business. Anyhow, the recipe is great and I highly recommend it!

This was excellent! I loved the apple syrup mixed with the compote although my kids did not, but the nice thing about this is it's so versatile. Tried it with the cream and that's really good too. The oatmeal is just sweet enough to be eaten alone as well. For the compote I used golden raisins as I think they have a really moist texture. They plump up beautifully and explode with juiciness when you bite into them. I highly recommend. I can easily make ahead. This is now one of our staple breakfasts during the week.

This makes an outstanding breakfast. I first had it at a trendy restaurant in Chicago and was able to locate the recipe to make at home. It can be made ahead and reheated for a later time. My family loved it! One change that I have made is to forego the cider syrup and opt instead for a tiny bit of cream or half-and-half.