Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge

 
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This is a traditional Jamaican breakfast staple I grew up eating that my stepmom (who is originally from Jamaica) would make all the time. As a child I remember waking up to the glorious smell of her cooking, I would always be the first to run to the dining room table, and eagerly wait for my dad to serve us each a heaping bowl of this hearty, creamy, sweet porridge. It’s almost as if polenta and cream of wheat had a Caribbean baby. It’s typically served with crackers or fried dumplings, but it is very filling so I usually make it and eat it just by itself.

Tips: Make sure to cook this low and slow, otherwise lumps will form very quickly. Constant whisking is required, and it doesn’t take long for it to begin to thicken, just be patient and consistent.

I’ve added orange zest which is definitely not traditional, but I think it’s a great addition and brightens up the flavors a bit in a very subtle way. But again it’s not traditional so if you don’t have an orange on hand don’t stress.

This is another dish that can be easily made vegan! Instead of sweetened condensed milk, you can sub for coconut condensed milk, brown sugar, honey, or any other sweetener you prefer.

Prep time: 5 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 5-6

Ingredients:

  • 1 can full fat coconut milk

  • 2 cups water

  • 1 cup fine cornmeal 

  • 1/3 cup of sweetened condensed milk

  • 1 cinnamon stick

  • 1 tsp of vanilla extract

  • ½ tsp cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp clove

  • ¼ tsp nutmeg

  • ¼ tsp of allspice 

  • ¼ tsp ginger

  • ¼ tsp kosher salt

  • ¼ tsp of orange zest (optional)



Directions

  1. Mix cornmeal and 2 cups of water in a large measuring cup or bowl making sure no lumps are present.

  2. Pour water/cornmeal mixture and coconut milk into a large sauce pan on medium low heat.

  3. Add cinnamon stick, vanilla extract, and spices. Continuously whisk over medium/low heat until mixture becomes thick and creamy.

  4. Once the mixture is thickened to your desire, reduce to the lowest heat and add condensed milk, salt, and orange zest.

  5. Taste and adjust by adding more condensed milk or spices to your liking. 

  6. Remove from heat and serve immediately.

BreakfastBeatrice walkerComment