Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge
Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge is a warm and creamy Caribbean breakfast favorite.Fine cornmeal is slowly cooked with water and milk until smooth.Coconut milk adds richness and a subtle tropical flavor.Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla create a warm and fragrant aroma.Sweetened condensed milk gives the porridge extra creaminess and sweetness.Serve hot for a filling, comforting, and delicious morning meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fine cornmeal
- 2 cups cold water
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 1 cinnamon stick
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup sweetened condensed milk, or to taste
- 2–3 tablespoons brown sugar, optional
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, optional
Instructions
Mix the Cornmeal
- Place the cornmeal in a large bowl.Add the cold water gradually while whisking continuously.Mix until the cornmeal is smooth and free from lumps.Starting with cold water is important because it helps prevent the cornmeal from clumping when it is added to hot liquid.
Heat the Milk
- Place a large heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat.Add the milk and coconut milk.Stir gently and heat until the mixture is warm.Do not allow it to boil rapidly.
Add the Cinnamon
- Add the cinnamon stick to the warm milk mixture.Allow it to gently infuse while the milk continues heating.
Add the Cornmeal Mixture
- Slowly pour the cornmeal mixture into the warm milk while whisking continuously.Keep stirring to prevent lumps from forming.
Cook the Porridge
- Reduce the heat to low.Continue stirring regularly as the cornmeal cooks.The mixture will gradually begin to thicken.
Add the Salt and Nutmeg
- Stir in the salt and ground nutmeg.Continue cooking gently.
Simmer Slowly
- Cook the porridge for approximately 15–20 minutes.Stir frequently, especially as the mixture becomes thicker.
Add Sweetened Condensed Milk
- Add the sweetened condensed milk gradually.Stir well and taste the porridge.Add more if you prefer a sweeter result.
Add Vanilla
- Stir in the vanilla extract.Add the optional brown sugar if additional sweetness is desired.
Remove the Cinnamon Stick
- Remove the cinnamon stick before serving.
Serve Hot
- Spoon the warm porridge into bowls.Sprinkle with a little extra nutmeg or cinnamon if desired.Serve immediately.
Notes
- Cornmeal: Fine cornmeal creates the smoothest porridge texture.
- Cold water: Mixing the cornmeal with cold water helps prevent lumps.
- Stirring: Regular stirring is essential for a creamy texture.
- Coconut milk: Coconut milk adds richness and tropical flavor.
- Sweetness: Adjust the condensed milk and sugar according to your preference.
- Consistency: The porridge thickens as it cools.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg provide the traditional warm aroma.
- Serving: Jamaican Cornmeal Porridge is best enjoyed hot and freshly prepared.