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Pour the three cups of water into a small pot, and bring to a boil. You may also boil the water in the microwave if desired. Stir the oats with a wooden spoon. Start checking for doneness at about the 20-minute mark. For chewier oats, cook less. For more done oats, cook more.  Do not stir the oats as they simmer. Allow them to rest in place as the water cooks them. Turn the heat lower if the oats seem to be drying out too quickly. Stir the mixture well using a wooden spoon. Let the oatmeal simmer for another 5 to 10 minutes. Spoon into bowls for serving. Sprinkle with cinnamon, nutmeg, brown sugar, maple syrup, or fruit.
Boil the water. Add the steel-cut oats to the pot, along with a pinch of salt, and bring back to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium low and cook uncovered for about 20 to 30 minutes. Add the milk to the oats. Remove the oatmeal from heat.