How to make CORNMEAL PORRIDGE (Cornmeal Pap) by Kelly Henry

How to make CORNMEAL PORRIDGE (Cornmeal Pap) by Kelly Henry is a easy Barbadian recipe that serves 2. 190 calories per serving. Recipe by Kelly's Kuisine on YouTube.

Prep: 7 min | Cook: 12 min | Total: 24 min

Cost: $0.87 total, $0.44 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Fine Cornmeal (also called polenta, sifted)
  • to taste Granulated Sugar (adjust sweetness to preference)
  • 0.5 cup Almond Milk (any plant or dairy milk can be used)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (optional, adds warm flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons Raisins (optional, golden raisins preferred)
  • 3 cups Water (for boiling the porridge base)

Instructions

  1. Boil Water

    Place 3 cups of water in a saucepan over medium‑high heat and bring to a rolling boil.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Prepare Cornmeal Slurry

    While the water is heating, put 1 cup of fine cornmeal into a large mixing bowl. Gradually add a small ladle of the boiling water, stirring continuously with a wooden spoon until the mixture is smooth and lump‑free.

    Time: PT2M

  3. Cook the Porridge

    Transfer the cornmeal slurry back into the saucepan with the remaining boiling water. Reduce heat to medium and stir constantly for about 8 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and becomes creamy.

    Time: PT8M

  4. Add Flavorings and Milk

    Stir in the granulated sugar to taste, ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon (if using), ½ cup almond milk, and the optional raisins. Continue to cook for another 2 minutes, adjusting the milk amount if you prefer a thinner consistency.

    Time: PT2M

  5. Serve

    Remove the saucepan from heat, let the porridge sit for a minute to cool slightly, then spoon into bowls and enjoy while hot.

    Time: PT1M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
190
Protein
4g
Carbohydrates
35g
Fat
3g
Fiber
3g

Dietary info: Vegetarian, Gluten‑Free (if using certified gluten‑free cornmeal), Vegan (when using plant milk and no honey)

Allergens: Corn, Tree nuts

Last updated: April 15, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

How to make CORNMEAL PORRIDGE (Cornmeal Pap) by Kelly Henry

Recipe by Kelly's Kuisine

A creamy, hearty Caribbean breakfast made with fine cornmeal, almond milk, a touch of cinnamon and optional raisins. This traditional Barbadian cornmeal porridge (also called cornmeal pop) is quick, nutritious, and perfect for starting the day without the sugary cereals.

EasyBarbadianServes 2

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

Source Video
1m
Prep
17m
Cook
10m
Cleanup
28m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$0.87
Total cost
$0.44
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Avoid lumps when mixing cornmeal with hot water.
  • Stir constantly while cooking to prevent scorching and lump formation.
  • Adjust milk amount at the end to achieve preferred thickness.

Safety Warnings

  • Handle boiling water with care to avoid burns.
  • Stir continuously to prevent the porridge from sticking and scorching the pan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of Cornmeal Porridge (Cornmeal Pop) in Barbadian cuisine?

A

Cornmeal porridge, known locally as "cornmeal pop," has been a staple breakfast in Barbados for generations, providing a filling, affordable meal for working families. It reflects the island's African and British culinary influences, using cornmeal introduced during the colonial era.

cultural
Q

What are the traditional regional variations of Cornmeal Porridge (Cornmeal Pop) in Caribbean cuisine?

A

Across the Caribbean, cornmeal porridge may be flavored with ginger, nutmeg, or coconut milk, and sometimes sweetened with local honey or molasses. In Jamaica it is often called "cornmeal porridge" and may include a splash of condensed milk, while in Trinidad it can be spiced with cardamom.

cultural
Q

How is Cornmeal Porridge (Cornmeal Pop) traditionally served in Barbados?

A

Barbadians traditionally serve the porridge hot, thick enough to eat with a spoon, often topped with raisins, a drizzle of condensed milk, or a sprinkle of cinnamon. It is eaten for breakfast alongside fresh fruit or a side of fried plantains.

cultural
Q

On what occasions or celebrations is Cornmeal Porridge (Cornmeal Pop) commonly enjoyed in Barbadian culture?

A

Cornmeal porridge is a daily breakfast staple but is also served at family gatherings, church breakfasts, and during the Crop Over festival as a comforting, energy‑rich start to the day.

cultural
Q

How does Cornmeal Porridge (Cornmeal Pop) fit into the broader Barbadian cuisine tradition?

A

The dish exemplifies Barbadian cuisine’s emphasis on simple, hearty foods that make use of locally available staples like cornmeal, dairy or plant milks, and spices. It pairs well with other island favorites such as saltfish, fried dumplings, or fresh tropical fruit.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for Cornmeal Porridge (Cornmeal Pop) versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Traditional ingredients include fine cornmeal, water, sugar, milk (often evaporated or coconut), cinnamon, and raisins. Acceptable substitutes are almond or oat milk for dairy, honey or maple syrup for sugar, and toasted coconut flakes instead of raisins.

cultural
Q

What other Barbadian dishes pair well with Cornmeal Porridge (Cornmeal Pop)?

A

It pairs nicely with saltfish fritters, fried plantains, fresh tropical fruit salads, and a side of boiled green bananas for a balanced breakfast plate.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making Cornmeal Porridge (Cornmeal Pop) at home?

A

Common errors include adding the cornmeal too quickly, which creates lumps, and stopping stirring too early, which leads to scorching. Also, adding too much milk at the end can make the porridge soupy.

technical
Q

Why does this Cornmeal Porridge (Cornmeal Pop) recipe use a cornmeal slurry before cooking instead of adding dry cornmeal directly to boiling water?

A

Creating a slurry with a small amount of hot water ensures the cornmeal is evenly hydrated, preventing clumps and giving the porridge a smooth, creamy texture as it cooks.

technical
Q

Can I make Cornmeal Porridge (Cornmeal Pop) ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes, you can refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of milk and stirring until smooth.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel Kelly's Kuisine specialize in?

A

The YouTube channel Kelly's Kuisine focuses on wholesome, family‑friendly breakfast and comfort food recipes, often highlighting Caribbean and Southern U.S. flavors with an emphasis on easy, nutritious cooking for home cooks.

channel
Q

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

A

Kelly's Kuisine blends traditional Caribbean dishes with modern, health‑conscious tweaks—like using almond milk instead of condensed milk—while keeping instructions simple and accessible for beginners, unlike some channels that focus on elaborate techniques.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Cornmeal Porridge
3

Cornmeal Porridge

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.

53 minServes 4$3
Caribbean
How To Make a Delicious, Creamy Cornmeal Porridge!
3

How To Make a Delicious, Creamy Cornmeal Porridge!

A simple, kid‑friendly creamy cornmeal porridge made with whole milk, fine yellow cornmeal, vanilla, almond essence and a hint of nutmeg. Perfect for a comforting breakfast or snack.

32 minServes 4$7
American
How to make THE BEST Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge!
4

How to make THE BEST Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge!

A creamy, spiced Jamaican cornmeal porridge made with coconut milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, condensed milk and evaporated milk. This comforting breakfast staple is rich, aromatic, and perfect served hot with hard bread or Jamaican crackers.

1 hr 7 minServes 4$22
Jamaican
Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge Recipe Video
1

Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge Recipe Video

A classic Jamaican cornmeal porridge made with milk, cinnamon, allspice, vanilla and a splash of evaporated milk for extra creaminess. Perfect for a hearty breakfast that will keep you full until lunch.

21 minServes 2$9
Jamaican
How To Make Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge
4

How To Make Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge

A creamy, fragrant Caribbean-style cornmeal porridge made with fine cornmeal, coconut milk, evaporated and condensed milk, and a blend of warm spices. Perfect for a comforting breakfast or snack, served with crackers or bread.

35 minServes 2$5
Caribbean
Overnight Oats Done Right
2

Overnight Oats Done Right

A quick, protein‑packed overnight oat jar layered with cinnamon, chia seeds, creamy non‑fat Greek yogurt, a hint of peanut butter and fresh berries. Prep in minutes, chill overnight, and enjoy a creamy, dreamy breakfast ready to go.

13 minServes 1$6
American
OVERNIGHT OATS
5

OVERNIGHT OATS

A quick, no‑cook, healthy breakfast that you can prepare the night before. Combine rolled oats, milk, yogurt, chia seeds, and maple syrup in a 16‑ounce Mason jar, refrigerate, and enjoy a creamy, grab‑and‑go meal in the morning. Perfect for busy mornings and fully customizable with your favorite toppings.

10 minServes 1$1
American
large batch whipped coffee? save time during the week? heck yea, sign me up! 1/2 cup instant
10

large batch whipped coffee? save time during the week? heck yea, sign me up! 1/2 cup instant

A quick, no‑cook coffee treat that mimics the viral Dalgona coffee trend. Whisk instant coffee, sugar, cinnamon and vanilla into a light, airy foam, then stir a spoonful into a glass of ice‑cold milk. Freeze the leftover foam for up to five days for a gelato‑like texture that’s perfect for a week‑long coffee boost.

10 minServes 4$6
Korean