Here’s a traditional Caribbean breakfast that’s warm, comforting and sweet. This creamy cornmeal porridge is infused with the rich flavors of coconut milk, spices, and a touch of sweetness, creating a dish that is as nourishing as it is delicious.
Cornmeal porridge is a staple breakfast dish in many Caribbean households, tracing its roots back to African culinary traditions. This hearty and comforting dish, often enriched with aromatic spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, has been cherished for generations. Known for its creamy texture and rich flavor, cornmeal porridge a nutritious meal and a guilt-free treat. What’s more, it’s packed with essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy choice to start the day. The high fiber content helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full and satisfied for longer periods, making it an ideal breakfast for sustained energy throughout the morning.
Whether enjoyed plain or with your favorite toppings, cornmeal porridge remains a beloved dish that nourishes both body and soul.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 4 cups water
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3-4 whole cloves
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup condensed milk or coconut condensed milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Sweetener of choice (brown sugar, honey, or maple syrup), to taste
- Ground cinnamon, for garnish
- Optional toppings: Fresh fruit (sliced bananas, berries), toasted coconut flakes, or nuts
Instructions:
Prepare the Cornmeal Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal with 1 cup of water to create a smooth paste. Set aside.
Boil the Water and Spices:
- In a large saucepan, bring the remaining 3 cups of water to a boil.
- Add the cinnamon stick, whole cloves, ground nutmeg, and salt to the boiling water, allowing the spices to infuse the liquid.
Add the Cornmeal Mixture:
- Gradually pour the cornmeal paste into the boiling water while stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
Simmer and Stir:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the porridge simmer gently, stirring occasionally, for about 15-20 minutes or until thickened to your desired consistency.
Incorporate Coconut Milk and Sweeteners:
- Stir in the coconut milk, condensed milk (or coconut condensed milk), and vanilla extract, allowing the porridge to simmer for an additional 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Taste and adjust the sweetness with your preferred sweetener, adding more if necessary.
Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the cinnamon stick and whole cloves from the porridge.
- Ladle the creamy cornmeal porridge into serving bowls.
- Sprinkle ground cinnamon on top for an extra layer of flavor and aroma.
- Garnish with your choice of fresh fruit, toasted coconut flakes, or nuts for added texture and visual appeal.
With its velvety texture, warming spices, and hint of sweetness, our Creamy Cornmeal Porridge captures the essence of Caribbean comfort food in every spoonful. Whether enjoyed as a hearty breakfast to start your day or as a cozy treat on a chilly evening, this traditional dish brings a taste of the tropics straight to your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, embrace the warmth of Caribbean hospitality, and indulge in the comforting embrace of this creamy delight that nourishes both body and soul.
