Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight

Name: Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup oatmeal; 4 cups coconut milk; 1/2 cup water; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; Pinch of salt; Sliced bananas; Chopped mangoes; Shredded coconut; Roasted nuts; Honey or maple syrup

Highlighted under: Comfort Cravings Kitchen

I adore starting my day with a bowl of Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight. This vibrant, creamy porridge is a staple in Jamaican cuisine, and I love how it warms me inside and out. The rich flavors of blended oats and coconut milk come together perfectly, while spices like nutmeg and cinnamon add just the right hint of warmth. What I enjoy most is that it's not only delicious but also highly customizable with toppings. Whether I go for fresh fruits or a sprinkle of roasted nuts, every bowl feels like a personal creation.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2026-01-05T19:14:30.565Z

When I first tried Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight, I was captivated by its textural contrast of smoothness and creaminess. The technique I employ is to blend the oats finely, allowing them to absorb more liquid during cooking. This results in a perfectly velvety porridge that doesn't clump together. I also experimented with various sweeteners, settling on brown sugar for its deep flavor that complements the coconut milk beautifully.

One of my favorite things to do is to layer toppings atop each serving. I've tried everything from ripe bananas to a dash of honey, which elevates each bowl into an exciting culinary experience. I encourage you to play with your toppings; the possibilities are endless, making it a delightful breakfast for any palate.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut flavor that takes you straight to Jamaica
Customizable with fresh fruits, nuts, or spices
A wholesome start to your day loaded with energy

      

Perfectly Grains: The Oatmeal Choice

Choosing the right oatmeal is key to achieving the desired texture in your porridge. For Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight, rolled oats are optimal as they blend well, creating a creamy and smooth finish. I recommend avoiding quick-cooking oats, as they may turn mushy, resulting in a less satisfying mouthfeel. If you prefer a gluten-free option, opt for certified gluten-free oats to ensure the integrity of your dish while enjoying the traditional essence.

Another factor to watch is the soaking time. If you have the time, soak the oats in water for at least an hour before blending, as this helps soften them and enhances the creaminess of your finished porridge. You can even soak them overnight in the refrigerator for a quick breakfast option in the morning, just remember to adjust the cooking time slightly since they’ll already be partially hydrated.

Coconut Milk: The Heart of Flavor

The richness of coconut milk not only provides creaminess but also infuses the porridge with a distinctive tropical flavor that makes it truly authentic. I recommend using full-fat coconut milk for the best results, as the added fat contributes to a velvety texture. If you're looking for a lighter version, you can mix one can of coconut milk with equal parts of water, but avoid using light coconut milk as it can result in a thinner consistency and diminished flavor.

If you're sensitive to coconut or want to try something different, almond milk or oat milk can serve as alternatives, but remember that these options may alter the overall flavor profile. Moreover, to enhance the coconut taste, consider incorporating a tablespoon of shredded coconut into the porridge while it cooks, creating an added layer of texture and flavor.

Customize It to Your Liking

Toppings are where you can truly make the dish your own! My favorite combination includes sliced bananas topped with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey. You can also try mixing in a handful of roasted nuts for added crunch; almonds or pecans work exceptionally well. If you prefer a sweeter finish, consider a swirl of maple syrup, which will complement the earthy flavors of the oats and spices beautifully.

For a seasonal twist, try incorporating spices like ginger or cardamom depending on what's available. Fresh mangoes add a juicy burst that pairs wonderfully with the creamy texture of the porridge. Feel free to experiment with textures and flavors until you find your perfect combination, turning every bowl into a unique breakfast experience.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight

Basic Ingredients

1 cup oatmeal
4 cups coconut milk
1/2 cup water
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Pinch of salt

Toppings (Optional)

Sliced bananas
Chopped mangoes
Shredded coconut
Roasted nuts
Honey or maple syrup

Preparation Steps

Instructions

How to Make Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight

Prepare the Oats

In a blender, combine the oatmeal with 1 cup of coconut milk and blend until smooth.

Cook the Mixture

In a pot, combine the oat mixture, remaining coconut milk, water, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Check the Consistency

Once the porridge has thickened to your desired consistency, remove it from heat.

Serve

Ladle the porridge into bowls and add your favorite toppings.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, you can toast the oatmeal lightly in a dry pan before blending.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftover porridge, it can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen it up, as it tends to thicken after cooling. Heat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently to maintain a creamy consistency, or pop it in the microwave for about 2 minutes, stopping to stir halfway through.

For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers for up to a month. Just ensure to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The texture may change slightly, but a good stir and a dash of coconut milk can help return it to its former glory.

Scaling the Recipe

The beauty of this porridge is its versatility, even when it comes to serving size. If you’re hosting a breakfast gathering or feeding a larger family, it’s simple to scale up the recipe. For every serving increase, simply add an extra 1/4 cup of oats and adjust the water and coconut milk proportions to maintain the ratio. Since this dish can serve as both breakfast and dessert, consider doubling it for a satisfying meal–just ensure you extend the simmering time by an additional 5-10 minutes to allow for proper thickening.

When serving a crowd, consider setting up a toppings bar. Prepare a variety of toppings ahead of time so guests can personalize their porridge. This interactive element not only enhances the dining experience but also invites creativity, allowing everyone to enjoy their unique bowl of Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you encounter difficulty achieving the desired thickness, don’t fret! You can always return the porridge to low heat and let it simmer for a few more minutes. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If it becomes too thick, simply add a little more coconut milk or water to bring it back to your preferred consistency and keep stirring until well mixed.

Conversely, if your porridge is too runny from the start, you can combine a small amount of additional oats with water in a bowl, blending until smooth, and incorporate this mixture into your cooking porridge. This thickening trick helps you salvage your dish without compromising on flavor and ensures a satisfying breakfast experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use regular milk instead of coconut milk?

Yes, you can substitute regular milk or any other plant-based milk if you prefer.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat with a splash of milk.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, if you use certified gluten-free oats, this porridge is gluten-free.

→ Can I make this porridge vegan?

Yes, this recipe is already vegan-friendly since it uses coconut milk and plant-based ingredients.