World Porridge Day

Celebrate World Porridge Day with a Warm and Wholesome Bowl

Hello, friends! Welcome back to Good Thyme Gal, where today we’re diving into the comforting, nutritious world of porridge in honor of World Porridge Day! Celebrated every year on October 10th, World Porridge Day is not just about enjoying this classic, hearty dish—it’s also about raising awareness for important causes. This day brings attention to Mary’s Meals, a global charity that provides food for children in need, often in the form of porridge.

So, while we’ll be cooking up a warm, wholesome bowl of porridge today, it’s also a wonderful opportunity to reflect on the power of a simple meal and the positive impact it can have on lives around the world.

The Humble History of Porridge

Porridge, one of the oldest and simplest meals in the world, has been a staple in many cultures for centuries. Whether it’s the traditional Scottish oat-based porridge, rice porridge from Asia, or cornmeal mush from the southern U.S., porridge takes many forms but always delivers warmth, comfort, and nutrition.

In Scotland, porridge has a particularly rich history and is a beloved breakfast choice. Made from oats and slow-cooked in water or milk, it’s a dish that warms both body and soul, especially on cold mornings. The Scottish even have porridge-making traditions, like stirring the oats clockwise for good luck and using a special wooden stick called a “spurtle” to stir it properly!

But porridge isn’t just about tradition. It’s a versatile dish that can be dressed up with fruits, nuts, seeds, or even savory toppings, making it as indulgent or as simple as you like. And of course, it’s packed with nutritional benefits, providing a great source of fiber, vitamins, and energy to start your day right.

Why We Love Porridge

Porridge is the ultimate blank canvas. Whether you like it simple and wholesome or filled with your favorite toppings, there’s no wrong way to enjoy it. Here are just a few reasons we love porridge:

- It’s healthy: Oats are rich in fiber, which is great for digestion, and they help keep you full for longer. Plus, they’re a source of essential vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, iron, and B vitamins.

- It’s versatile: You can keep it classic with just oats, water, and a pinch of salt, or jazz it up with everything from fresh fruits and honey to nut butters and seeds. Porridge can be sweet, savory, or somewhere in between.

- It’s comforting: There’s something incredibly soothing about a warm bowl of porridge, especially on a cool morning. It’s the perfect way to start your day with a little coziness and care.

- It’s easy to make: With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can whip up a nutritious, delicious meal that fits your personal taste.

In honor of World Porridge Day, I’m sharing a delicious, wholesome porridge recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. This **Creamy Banana Nut Porridge** is sweetened naturally with banana and topped with crunchy nuts, making it the perfect balance of textures and flavors.

Creamy Banana Nut Porridge Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup old-fashioned rolled oats

• 2 cups water or milk (for a creamier texture, use milk or a plant-based milk alternative)

• 1 ripe banana, mashed

• 1 tablespoon chia seeds or flaxseeds (optional, for extra fiber)

• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

*Toppings: sliced banana, chopped nuts (like almonds or walnuts), honey or maple syrup, and a sprinkle of cinnamon

Cooking Instructions

1. In a medium saucepan, bring the water (or milk) to a gentle boil. Stir in the oats, reduce the heat to low, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the oats are soft and the mixture has thickened.

2. Once the oats are nearly done, stir in the mashed banana, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. This will make your porridge extra creamy and add a natural sweetness. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to combine.

3. Optional: Add chia seeds or flaxseeds: For a little extra nutrition, you can stir in chia seeds or flaxseeds at this point. These add a boost of fiber and healthy omega-3 fats.

4. Once your porridge is done, spoon it into bowls and add your favorite toppings. I like to add sliced bananas, a handful of chopped nuts for crunch, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for a bit of extra sweetness. Finish with a sprinkle of cinnamon for that warm, cozy flavor.

5. Enjoy!

Chef's Tips: Fun Porridge Variations

Porridge is so versatile, you can easily tweak the recipe to fit your cravings. Here are a few ideas to mix things up:

Apple Cinnamon Porridge: Replace the banana with grated apple and add extra cinnamon. Top with a dollop of yogurt and some raisins for a delicious, fruity twist.

Chocolate Peanut Butter Porridge: Stir in a spoonful of peanut butter and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for a decadent breakfast treat.

Savory Porridge: If you’re in the mood for something different, make a savory version! Cook the oats in vegetable broth, and top with sautéed spinach, a poached egg, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

Get Involved with World Porridge Day

While we’re enjoying our delicious bowls of porridge, it’s also important to remember the charitable side of World Porridge Day. Mary’s Meals, the organization behind this day, provides school children in developing countries with daily meals—often in the form of porridge. It’s a simple yet powerful way to help improve lives and provide children with the nutrition they need to thrive.

If you’d like to contribute, consider donating to Mary’s Meals or even organizing a porridge-making event with friends and family to raise awareness for this important cause.

Time to Enjoy Porridge!

On this World Porridge Day, let’s all take a moment to appreciate the simple joy of a warm, wholesome meal. Whether you’re making a traditional recipe or adding your own twist, porridge is a perfect way to start the day with comfort and care.

I’d love to see how you’re celebrating! Share your porridge creations with me on Instagram using #GoodThymeGal—whether it’s sweet, savory, or somewhere in between, I can’t wait to see what you whip up!

Until next time, happy cooking and happy World Porridge Day!