Spread groats on a cutting board and inspect for pebbles and twigs.
Place groats in a small bowl and cover with water. Allow to soak at least 1 hour. Overnight in the fridge is fine as well.
Drain and rinse oats through a fine mesh sieve the transfer to a pot with 2-½ cups of water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium low and simmer until water is absorbed and groats are tender. 50 minutes to over an hour.
Pot could boil over, keeping the lid ajar can help reduce foam.
Remove from pot, fluff and stir in toppings of your choice. Serve
Notes
Plan ahead and soak the whole grains before cooking to help reduce the cooking time.