Cornmeal Porridge

Cornmeal Porridge is a easy Caribbean recipe that serves 4. 250 calories per serving. Recipe by Jehan Powell on YouTube.

Prep: 15 min | Cook: 28 min | Total: 53 min

Cost: $3.35 total, $0.84 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Yellow Cornmeal (fine to medium grind, sifted)
  • 3 cups Water (cold)
  • 2 cups Whole Milk (can substitute with coconut milk for vegan version)
  • 1/4 cup Condensed Milk (sweetened; can replace with 2 tbsp brown sugar for vegan)
  • 3 pieces Whole Cloves
  • 1 piece Cinnamon Stick
  • 1 teaspoon Pure Vanilla Extract
  • 1 pinch Freshly Grated Nutmeg (grated just before serving)
  • 1 dash Almond Extract (optional, use sparingly)

Instructions

  1. Make cornmeal slurry

    Place the yellow cornmeal in a mixing bowl and gradually whisk in the cold water until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Heat milk and water

    In a saucepan, combine the remaining water and whole milk. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  3. Incorporate cornmeal

    When the liquid reaches a boil, slowly pour the cornmeal slurry into the saucepan while whisking continuously to break up any remaining clumps.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: Medium heat

  4. Add whole spices

    Add the whole cloves and cinnamon stick to the pot.

    Time: PT1M

  5. Simmer the porridge

    Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let the porridge cook for about 20 minutes. Stir gently every 3–4 minutes to prevent sticking.

    Time: PT20M

    Temperature: Low heat

  6. Sweeten and flavor

    Stir in the condensed milk (or brown sugar), vanilla extract, freshly grated nutmeg, and a dash of almond extract if using. Mix until fully incorporated.

    Time: PT3M

  7. Finish and serve

    Remove the whole cloves and cinnamon stick. Adjust consistency with extra milk if you prefer a runnier texture, then ladle into bowls and enjoy.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
250
Protein
5 g
Carbohydrates
35 g
Fat
8 g
Fiber
2 g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Can be made vegan by substituting milk with coconut milk and condensed milk with brown sugar

Allergens: Milk, Dairy, Tree nuts

Last updated: April 15, 2026

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Cornmeal Porridge

Recipe by Jehan Powell

A classic Caribbean breakfast porridge made with yellow cornmeal, milk (or coconut milk for a vegan version), sweetened with condensed milk or brown sugar, and flavored with cloves, cinnamon, vanilla, and nutmeg. Warm, filling, and perfect for a hearty start to the day.

EasyCaribbeanServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
11m
Prep
30m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
51m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$3.35
Total cost
$0.84
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Creating a smooth cornmeal slurry without lumps.
  • Whisking continuously when adding the slurry to hot liquid.
  • Covering and simmering the porridge for the full 20 minutes.
  • Removing whole spices before serving.

Safety Warnings

  • Hot milk can scorch; stir constantly while bringing to a boil.
  • Use oven mitts when handling the hot saucepan.
  • Be careful when removing whole cloves and cinnamon stick to avoid burns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Caribbean Cornmeal Porridge in Caribbean cuisine?

A

Cornmeal porridge, known as "mangu" or "pap" in various islands, has been a staple breakfast for centuries, originally made from ground maize introduced by European colonists and adapted by African slaves. It provides a filling, energy‑rich start to the day and is often served at family gatherings and festive mornings.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Caribbean Cornmeal Porridge in the Caribbean?

A

In Jamaica the porridge is often flavored with ginger, nutmeg, and condensed milk; in Trinidad it may include cassava or sweet potato; in the Bahamas, coconut milk is common. Each island adds its own spice blend and preferred sweetener, reflecting local tastes.

cultural
Q

How is Caribbean Cornmeal Porridge traditionally served in the Caribbean?

A

It is typically served hot in a bowl, topped with a drizzle of condensed milk, a sprinkle of ground cinnamon, and sometimes a splash of fresh milk. It may be accompanied by fresh fruit, banana slices, or a side of fried dumplings called "bakes".

cultural
Q

During which occasions is Caribbean Cornmeal Porridge traditionally enjoyed in Caribbean culture?

A

The porridge is a common breakfast for everyday meals but is also served at holiday breakfasts, family reunions, and after church services on Sundays, symbolizing comfort and hospitality.

cultural
Q

What makes Caribbean Cornmeal Porridge special or unique in Caribbean cuisine?

A

Its creamy texture comes from the gelatinization of cornmeal combined with dairy or coconut milk, while the aromatic spices—clove, cinnamon, nutmeg—give it a warm, festive flavor that is both simple and deeply satisfying.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Caribbean Cornmeal Porridge?

A

Common errors include adding the cornmeal to cold liquid (causing lumps), not whisking continuously, cooking over too high heat which can scorch the milk, and forgetting to remove whole spices before serving. Following the critical steps ensures a smooth, flavorful porridge.

technical
Q

Why does this Caribbean Cornmeal Porridge recipe use whole cloves and a cinnamon stick instead of ground spices?

A

Whole spices infuse the porridge gently during the simmer, providing a subtle, layered aroma without overwhelming the delicate cornmeal base. They are removed before serving to keep the texture smooth.

technical
Q

Can I make Caribbean Cornmeal Porridge ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can refrigerate the cooked porridge in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on low heat, adding a splash of milk or coconut milk to restore creaminess, and stir well before serving.

technical
Q

What texture and appearance should I look for when making Caribbean Cornmeal Porridge?

A

The porridge should be thick yet pourable, with a smooth, glossy surface. No visible lumps should remain, and the color will be a warm creamy yellow. If it looks grainy, continue whisking and add a little more liquid.

technical
Q

How do I know when Caribbean Cornmeal Porridge is done cooking?

A

After the 20‑minute simmer, the cornmeal will have fully absorbed the liquid, and the mixture will pull away from the sides of the pan when stirred. It should feel thick but still fluid enough to ladle.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Jehan Powell specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Jehan Powell focuses on easy, home‑cooked comfort food recipes from various cultures, with an emphasis on step‑by‑step tutorials that make classic dishes accessible to beginner cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel Jehan Powell's approach to Caribbean cooking differ from other Caribbean cooking channels?

A

Jehan Powell blends personal family traditions with clear visual cues, often offering vegan substitutions and budget‑friendly tips, whereas many other channels focus solely on traditional methods without highlighting adaptable variations.

channel

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