Cornmeal Porridge, Healthy, Hearty & Creamy (Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge with coconut milk)

Ingredients

• 8 cups Water (for boiling the porridge base)
• 2 sticks Cinnamon Sticks (or cinnamon leaves (B leaves) for flavor)
• 2 cups Cornmeal (fine or medium grind, gluten‑free)
• 1 cup Coconut Milk (full‑fat canned coconut milk for richness)
• 1 cup Evaporated Milk (canned, adds creaminess)
• 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (pure vanilla essence)
• 1/2 tsp Salt (enhances flavor)
• 1/2 cup Sweetened Condensed Milk (adds sweetness and richness)
• 2 Tbsp Granulated Sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 tsp Nutmeg (freshly grated for aroma)

Instructions

1. Boil Cinnamon‑Infused Water

   Add 8 cups of water and 2 cinnamon sticks (or leaves) to a large pot. Bring to a rolling boil over medium‑high heat, then let simmer for 2–3 minutes to extract the flavor.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 100°C

2. Prepare Cornmeal Slurry

   In a mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of cornmeal with enough cold water to make a smooth, lump‑free slurry (about 1 cup). Whisk vigorously until all dry spots disappear.

   Time: PT3M

3. Incorporate Slurry into Boiling Water

   Slowly pour the cornmeal slurry into the boiling cinnamon water while stirring continuously. Continue to stir for 2–3 minutes until the mixture begins to thicken and is free of lumps.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: 90°C

4. Simmer the Porridge

   Reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot, and let the porridge simmer for about 20 minutes. Stir gently every 5 minutes to prevent sticking and to achieve a smooth texture.

   Time: PT20M

   Temperature: Low (≈80°C)

5. Add Creamy Flavorings

   Stir in 1 cup coconut milk, 1 cup evaporated milk, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/2 cup sweetened condensed milk, 2 Tbsp sugar, and the freshly grated nutmeg. Mix until fully incorporated and the porridge is glossy and creamy.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: Low

6. Rest and Serve

   Remove the pot from heat and let the porridge sit uncovered for 5 minutes to cool slightly. Serve warm in bowls; optional garnish with a pinch of extra grated nutmeg or toasted coconut flakes.

   Time: PT5M

   Temperature: RoomTemp

Nutrition Facts

Calories

250

Protein

5 g

Carbohydrates

45 g

Fat

8 g

Fiber

4 g