Vegan Apple Cheddar Oatmeal W/ Tempeh Crisps

Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch, this comforting bowl of creamy apple cheddar oatmeal with a side of sweet, crisp tempeh is just a darling bowl of heaven.

Baby, it's cold outside.
I came inside fresh from a grocery store run (actually, a frigid cold, icy walk) and raced into the kitchen starving for something especially warm and quick.
Oatmeal sounded marvelous.
But what kind of flavored oatmeal?
Well, I decided upon the unique combinations of apple and cheddar, for there's a heartiness that tastes so inviting. It reminded me of those apple cheddar pies in the old vegetarian days. That is one recipe I would love to make in the future.
Also, I had half a package of tempeh left and always wanted to try my hand at tempeh facon, but these that are complementing the apple cheddar oatmeal are slightly thicker, but the recipe is inspired by Lunch Box Bunch.
The oatmeal is rich and creamy with cheesy apple flavor in every bite and the tempeh is crispy and delightful! It's so good one might have 2 bowls. Or 3....
Mmmmhmmmmm!

Apple Cheddar Oatmeal

1/2 cup unsweetened applesauce
1/4 cup almond milk
2 tablespoon nondairy creamer (I used So Delicious Coconut Milk brand here)
1 cup quick rolled oats
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ginger
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 small apple, sliced
1/4 cup Daiya Cheddar Shreds

In a pan, on medium heat temperature bring the applesauce, milk, and creamer to a boil.
Add the oats and seasonings, and stir for 2-3 minutes.
Turn off heat and melt in some of the cheese.
Apple slices and remainder of cheese go on top.

Tempeh Crisps

2 tablespoon maple syrup
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon Simply Asian Sweet Garlic Ginger seasoning
1 teaspoon onion powder
1/4 teaspoon paprika

After slicing the tempeh, soak them in the mixture for a minute or two.

In a skillet of hot olive oil (1 or 2 teaspoons please!),  toss in tempeh slices & their juices. Don't be afraid of the heat! ;)

When turning them over 2 minutes later, they should be golden brown. Also recommend covering. No one wants hot grease jumping onto their clothes or bare skin!

Once the tempeh is done, rest it for a bit & then add the lovely additions to the ready & waiting apple cheddar oatmeal.