Highland Porridge

Highland Porridge Recipe from Barbados with Oats, Milk, and Raisins

Region / culture: Barbados | Preparation time: 5 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Highland Porridge is a traditional Scottish dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. This hearty and comforting breakfast dish is made with simple ingredients like oats, milk, sugar, and spices. It is a delicious and nutritious way to start your day.

History

Highland Porridge has been a staple in Scottish cuisine for generations. It is believed to have originated in the Highlands of Scotland, where oats have been a dietary staple for centuries. The dish was traditionally made with oats, water, and salt, but over time, ingredients like milk, sugar, and spices were added to enhance the flavor.

Ingredients

3 cups (750 ml) water
1.33 cups (330 ml) large flake oats/ corn flakes/ wheatflakes
0.5 cup (125 ml) dry milk powder
2 tbsp (30 ml) Barbados sugar
1 tbsp (15 ml) butter
0.25 tsp (1 ml) cinnamon
0.25 tsp (1 ml) allspice
0.25 tsp (1 ml) salt, to taste
Handful of raisins (optional)

How to prepare

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Stir in all the ingredients.
Reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Serve with milk or cream and sprinkle with Barbados.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra flavor and texture.
Use different spices like nutmeg or ginger for a unique twist.
Top with fresh berries or a drizzle of honey for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use large flake oats for the best texture and flavor.

- Stir the porridge frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

- Adjust the sweetness and spices to suit your taste preferences.

- For a creamier porridge, you can add more milk or cream before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Highland Porridge hot with a splash of milk or cream and a sprinkle of Barbados sugar on top. You can also add a handful of raisins for extra sweetness and texture.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to stir the porridge frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

- Simmer the porridge on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Adjust the consistency of the porridge by adding more milk or water as needed.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use regular sugar or honey instead of Barbados sugar.

- Substitute butter with coconut oil or ghee for a dairy-free option.

- Use almond milk or oat milk instead of dairy milk for a vegan version.

Make Ahead Tips

You can make a large batch of Highland Porridge and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Highland Porridge in individual bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of honey. You can also top it with fresh fruit or nuts for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Highland Porridge pairs well with a cup of hot tea or coffee. You can also serve it with a side of toast or fresh fruit for a complete breakfast.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover porridge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk or water to adjust the consistency.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

One serving of Highland Porridge contains approximately 250 calories. This makes it a satisfying and filling breakfast option.

Carbohydrates

One serving of Highland Porridge contains approximately 40 grams of carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are the body's main source of energy and are essential for fueling your day.

Fats

One serving of Highland Porridge contains approximately 5 grams of fat. Fat is important for providing energy and supporting cell growth and function.

Proteins

One serving of Highland Porridge contains approximately 8 grams of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

Highland Porridge is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamin D. These nutrients are important for overall health and well-being.

Alergens

Highland Porridge contains dairy (milk) and gluten (oats). It may not be suitable for individuals with dairy or gluten allergies.

Summary

Highland Porridge is a nutritious and delicious breakfast option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a great way to start your day on a healthy note.

Summary

Highland Porridge is a classic Scottish dish that is hearty, comforting, and nutritious. It is easy to make and can be customized with your favorite toppings and flavors. Enjoy this delicious breakfast dish to start your day on a warm and satisfying note.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe. It was a cold and rainy day in the Highlands of Scotland, and I had sought refuge in a cozy little cottage after a long hike through the rugged countryside. The smell of warm oats and cinnamon wafted through the air, and I couldn't resist peeking into the kitchen to see what was cooking.

There, standing over a bubbling pot of porridge, was a kindly old woman with a twinkle in her eye. She introduced herself as Mrs. MacLeod, and she explained that she was preparing Highland Porridge - a traditional Scottish dish that had been passed down through her family for generations.

As I watched her work, I was amazed at the simplicity of the recipe. Mrs. MacLeod told me that all it took was a handful of oats, a splash of milk, a pinch of salt, and a generous sprinkling of cinnamon. She stirred the pot slowly, her wooden spoon making a soothing clinking sound against the sides.

I couldn't help but ask her how she had learned to make such a delicious dish. Mrs. MacLeod smiled and told me that she had learned the recipe from her own grandmother, who had learned it from her mother before her. She explained that each generation had added their own twist to the recipe, making it uniquely their own.

As I sat down to enjoy a steaming bowl of Highland Porridge, Mrs. MacLeod shared with me the story of how the recipe had come to be. She told me about the harsh winters in the Highlands, when food was scarce and porridge was a comforting staple. She spoke of her grandmother's ingenuity in adding cinnamon to the dish, a touch of sweetness that made it truly special.

I listened intently, savoring each spoonful of the warm porridge. Mrs. MacLeod's stories brought the recipe to life, and I could almost taste the history and tradition in every bite.

Before I left the cottage that day, Mrs. MacLeod handed me a handwritten copy of the recipe for Highland Porridge. She urged me to make it for my own family, to pass on the tradition and keep the recipe alive for future generations.

And so, I returned home with the recipe in hand, eager to recreate the delicious dish that had warmed my soul in the Highlands of Scotland. I followed Mrs. MacLeod's instructions to the letter, stirring the pot slowly and adding a sprinkle of cinnamon just as she had taught me.

As the porridge bubbled on the stove, filling my kitchen with its comforting aroma, I couldn't help but feel a connection to Mrs. MacLeod and her family. I imagined generations of women before me, standing over their own pots of porridge, stirring and seasoning with love and care.

When I finally sat down to enjoy a bowl of Highland Porridge with my own family, I felt a sense of pride and contentment. I knew that I was carrying on a tradition that had been passed down through the ages, a recipe that had weathered the test of time and remained a beloved staple in Scottish kitchens.

And as I took that first delicious spoonful of warm, creamy porridge, I knew that Mrs. MacLeod and her family were with me in spirit, sharing in the joy of a simple dish that had brought us all together.