Porridge with dried fruit compote

Instructions

1. Place 1 cup (250ml) water, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, vanilla and sugar in a small saucepan. Bring to the boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low, add dried fruit and simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes or until fruit is tender and plump. Remove from heat and leave to stand for 15 minutes. Remove and discard cinnamon stick and cardamom pods.
2. Meanwhile, combine oats, milk, 1 cup (250ml) boiling water and a pinch of salt in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook, stirring with a wooden spoon, for 5 minutes or until porridge comes to the boil and thickens. Remove from heat, cover and stand for 10 minutes.
3. Spoon porridge into bowls. Top with compote and 2 teaspoons syrup. Serve.