1. Bring the water to a boil in a small pot. 2. Reduce the heat to medium-low, then stir in the oats. 3. Bring the oats to a simmer, then whisk in the cacao. 4. Simmer for about 4 minutes or until the oats have thickened but are still a little loose, stirring occasionally. 5. Stir in the vanilla, 2 drops of peppermint flavor, almond milk, maple syrup, and salt. 6. Taste, then add more peppermint (another drop--it's strong) or maple syrup if you wish. 7. If you like, top with melted dark chocolate, more maple syrup, and coarse Mediterranean sea salt.