Simple Oatmeal Bread with Hard-Boiled Egg Sauce

### Instructions:

#### 1. **Prepare the Oatmeal Bread Dough**
Start by preparing the oatmeal. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the rolled oats with warm water and honey. Stir to combine and let it sit for about 5 minutes until the oats have absorbed the water and softened.

#### 2. **Activate the Yeast**
In a separate small bowl, mix the active dry yeast with a teaspoon of sugar (optional) and a little warm water. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes until it becomes frothy. If your yeast doesn’t bubble up, it may be old, and you should try a fresh batch.

#### 3. **Combine the Wet Ingredients**
Once the oats have softened and the yeast has activated, mix the two together. Add the olive oil and a pinch of salt to the oat mixture, and stir to combine. Then, slowly incorporate the yeast mixture into the bowl with the oats.

#### 4. **Add the Dry Ingredients**
Gradually add the all-purpose flour and baking powder (if using), stirring until a sticky dough forms. You may need to adjust the flour slightly depending on the consistency of your dough—add more if it’s too wet or a little water if it’s too dry.

#### 5. **Knead the Dough**
Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface. Knead for 5-7 minutes until it’s smooth and elastic. This step is crucial for building the right texture in the bread.

#### 6. **Let the Dough Rise**
Grease a large bowl with a little oil and place the dough inside. Cover the bowl with a clean cloth and let it rise in a warm place for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until it has doubled in size.

#### 7. **Shape and Bake the Bread**
Once the dough has risen, punch it down and shape it into a loaf. Place it into a greased loaf pan or shape it into a round and place it on a baking sheet. Cover and let it rise for another 30 minutes. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Once the dough has risen, bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Remove from the oven and let it cool before slicing.

#### 8. **Prepare the Hard-Boiled Egg Sauce**
While the bread is baking, prepare the egg sauce. Peel the hard-boiled eggs and chop them into small pieces. In a bowl, combine the chopped eggs with mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir until smooth and well combined. If you want a creamier consistency, feel free to add a bit more mayo or yogurt.

#### 9. **Serve the Bread with the Egg Sauce**
Once the oatmeal bread has cooled slightly, slice it into thick pieces. Spread a generous amount of the hard-boiled egg sauce on each slice. For extra flavor, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives. Serve the bread warm with a side of salad or as part of a larger brunch spread.

### Why You’ll Love This Dish:
This **Simple Oatmeal Bread with Hard-Boiled Egg Sauce** is a wonderfully comforting and satisfying dish. The oatmeal bread is soft, slightly nutty, and has a subtle sweetness from the honey. It pairs perfectly with the rich, creamy egg sauce that’s tangy from the mustard and lemon juice, yet smooth and indulgent thanks to the mayo or yogurt. The combination is hearty but not overwhelming, making it ideal for any time of day.

### Health Benefits:
The oatmeal bread is a wholesome option, packed with fiber and nutrients from the oats. Oats are known for their heart-healthy benefits, as they can help reduce cholesterol and improve digestion. The hard-boiled egg sauce adds protein, making this dish both filling and nourishing. By using yogurt instead of mayonnaise, you can make it lighter while still retaining a creamy texture.

### Variations:
– **Add Veggies**: For added flavor and nutrition, mix finely chopped veggies like cucumber, bell peppers, or spinach into the egg sauce.
– **Spices**: Try adding a dash of smoked paprika or cumin to the egg sauce for a different flavor profile.
– **Vegan Version**: To make this dish vegan, use a plant-based mayo alternative and add sliced avocado in place of the eggs for a creamy, savory twist.
– **Toast the Bread**: For extra crunch and flavor, toast the slices of oatmeal bread before topping with the egg sauce.

### Final Thoughts:
**Simple Oatmeal Bread with Hard-Boiled Egg Sauce** is a nourishing, comforting dish that brings together the best of hearty bread and creamy, savory egg sauce. It’s a perfect option for a cozy brunch or a satisfying snack. Plus, with easy-to-find ingredients and a simple preparation method, this dish is approachable for cooks of all levels. Enjoy this delicious and filling meal that’s packed with flavor and heartwarming goodness.