Mixed Grain and Wild Rice Cereal

This hearty cereal stores well in the refrigerator and can be reheated.

8 cups water

1/2 cup wild rice, rinsed

1/2 cup barley

1/2 cup Irish oatmeal

1/2 cup bulgur wheat

1/2 cup golden or dark raisins

1/2 cup pitted dates, chopped

1/3 cup firmly packed brown sugar

3 tablespoons butter

3/4 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon powdered cinnamon

Heavy cream (optional)

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.

Simmer 2 cups water and wild rice in medium saucepan, uncovered, for 20 minutes. Drain rice.

Butter a 2-1/2-quart heatproof dish. In dish, mix rice with 6 cups (hot) water. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cover loosely with foil and bake until grains are tender and water is absorbed (about 1-1/2 hours.) May be served topped with a bit of heavy cream.

Makes 8 portions.