Apple Crisp Oatmeal

• 1 c steel cut oats
• 2 c water
• 2 c milk
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 tsp vanilla extract or vanilla bean paste
• 1/2 tsp sea salt
• 2 apples sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• squeeze of 1/2 lemon
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/4 c walnuts or pecans
• pinch of sea salt

FOR THE OATMEAL:

1. In a large saucepan, over medium high heat, combine: water, milk, oats, butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, cinnamon stick, vanilla, and sea salt.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer, lower heat, cover, and cook for approximately 30 minutes - stirring every few minutes with a wooden spoon.

FOR THE APPLE TOPPING:

1. Combine apples, brown sugar, sea salt, and lemon in a bowl.
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add the apples and nuts.
3. Cook until juices thicken slightly and apples start to caramelize.
4. Serve oatmeal with apple topping.