The consistency can vary quite a bit though. For instance, if you add the oatmeal to cold water and then bring to a boil, the oatmeal will be very soft. If you wait until the water is boiling before adding it, the texture is more firm. You can also get steel cut oats which have a different texture especially if those have add flax seeds with it.

I like oatmeal most ways but I definitely like the steel cut with flax seeds best flavored with maple and brown sugar.