Ultimate Nourishing Porridge - Sweet & Savory

Porridge is a dish with ancient roots, made by cooking grains (whether rolled, crushed, or whole) in liquid until they become soft and creamy. While traditionally associated with breakfast, modern porridge has evolved into a comforting dish enjoyed any time of day, bringing together old world comfort with fresh, creative flavors. This versatile porridge recipe transforms simple grains into a deeply comforting and nutritious meal. The base recipe can be customized with various grains and prepared either sweet or savory. From my Insight Timer Live 1/12/25

Base Recipe (2 servings)

Core Ingredients

• 1/2 cup uncooked grains (see grain guide below)

• 2-3 cups liquid (milk, non-dairy milk, water, or bone broth)

• 1/4 tsp sea salt

• 1 tbsp chia seeds or ground flax

• Optional: 2 tbsp collagen peptides or hemp hearts for protein

Grain Guide & Liquid Ratios

• Steel-cut oats: 3 cups liquid, 25-30 minutes cooking time

• Quinoa: 2 cups liquid, 15-20 minutes cooking time

• Farro: 2.5 cups liquid, 30-35 minutes cooking time

• Millet: 2 cups liquid, 20-25 minutes cooking time

• Rice: 2 cups liquid, 20-25 minutes cooking time

Basic Method

1. Toast the Grains

   • Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat

   • Add dry grains and toast for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant

2. Cook the Base

   • Add 3/4 of the recommended liquid and salt

   • Bring to aboil, then reduce heat to low

   • Cover and simmer according to grain timing above

   • Add remaining liquid gradually as needed

   • Stir occasionally to prevent sticking

   • Porridge is done when grains are tender and texture is creamy

Sweet Variation

Sweet Additions (add in last 5 minutes)

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/4 tsp cardamom

• 1/4 tsp ground ginger

• 1 tbsp maple syrup or honey

• 1 tsp vanilla extract

• 1/2 mashed banana

• Optional: swap some liquid for coconut milk

Sweet Topping Suggestions

• Stewed fruits (apple, pear, berries)

• Toasted nuts and seeds

• Greek yogurt or coconut yogurt

• Almond or peanut butter drizzle

• Hemp hearts

• Extra drizzle of honey or maple syrup

Savory Variation

Savory Additions (add during cooking)

• 1 minced garlic clove

• 1/4 tsp turmeric

• 1/2 tsp ground cumin or smoked paprika

• 1-2 tbsp nutritional yeast

• 1 tsp soy sauce or miso paste

• Optional: miso butter (1 tsp miso + 1 tsp butter, melted together)

Savory Topping Suggestions

• Soft-boiled egg 

• Sautéed greens (kale, spinach)

• Roasted mushrooms, sweet potatoes, or other veggies

• Furikake or toasted sesame seeds

• Chili oil or chili crisp

• Fresh herbs (cilantro, scallions)

• Crumbled nori

• Avocado

Tips

• Start with less liquid and add more as needed for desired consistency

• For extra creaminess, try a combination of milk and water

• I often add a splash of coconut milk or a dollop of coconut yogurt when the porridge is finished

• Toast grains first for enhanced nutty flavor

• Add a pinch of salt even to sweet versions to enhance flavors

• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 5 days; reheat with a splash of liquid

• For meal prep, make a large batch of the base and customize portions as needed

Nutritional Boosters

• Use bone broth as part of the liquid in savory versions

• Add turmeric and black pepper for anti-inflammatory benefits

• Include probiotic-rich toppings like yogurt or fermented vegetables

• Incorporate healthy fats through nuts, seeds, or avocado

• Add protein with eggs, collagen, tempeh, or hemp hearts

  
  
  
  

  

  Porridge with Berries, Seeds & Bee Pollen