Step 1

In a medium saucepan, combine the water, mushrooms, onion, yeast, herbs, garlic powder, paprika, salt and pepper.

Step 2

Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 10 minutes. Remove from heat.

Step 3

If desired (for a varied texture), coarsely grind half of the oats in a food processor.

Step 4

Add all of the oats to the hot mushroom mixture. Cool completely, uncovered, in pan (do not skip this step! The oats will continue to absorb more liquid as the mixture cools).

Step 5

Taste the oat-mushroom mixture. Adjust the seasonings as desired.

Step 6

Use immediately (see cooking options below) or see storage options (below) for future use!