Abstract: A method for recovering viscous oil from a subterranean formation through a wellbore having a horizontal section into the formation. Steam is circulated through the horizontal section to initially heat the formation and to produce fluids to the surface. After the initial heating is complete, production is ceased while the injection of steam is continued to accumulate a slug of steam within and around the horizontal section. The well is then shut-in and the formation is allowed to "soak". Production is then resumed and steam is again continuously injected into the well when oil appears in the produced fluids. This cycle is repeated until the production of oil drops belows an acceptable rate.