1. Mix the oats and milk in a saucepan. Bring to the boil, turn down the heat to a simmer and cook for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently. Once you have the consistency you prefer, stir in the cocoa and vanilla extract (if using).
2. Pour into a bowl and top with the banana slices, almonds and honey to taste (if using).

VARIATIONS:

BLUEBERRY

1. Add a handful of fresh or frozen blueberries to the oats.
2. Serve the porridge topped with a little desiccated coconut, a few chopped walnuts and a drizzle of honey.

APPLE PIE

1. Omit the cocoa powder and vanilla. Cook the porridge with 1 grated apple, 1 tbsp ground axseed, a handful of raisins and 1⁄2 tsp cinnamon.
2. Serve topped with chopped apple (raw or cooked) and a drizzle of honey.

CHOCOLATE ORANGE

1. Add the juice of 1/2 orange and 1/4 tsp cinnamon to the oats. Serve topped with a square of dark chocolate and a few orange slices.

CARROT CAKE

1. Omit the cocoa powder and vanilla. Cook the porridge with 1 grated carrot, a handful of raisins, 1/4 tsp ginger and 1/4 tsp cinnamon.
2. Serve topped with a few chopped walnuts.