Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight

Name: Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup cornmeal; 4 cups water; 1 cup coconut milk; 1/4 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp nutmeg; 1/2 tsp cinnamon; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/4 cup brown sugar; Bananas and honey for serving (optional)

Highlighted under: Festive Feast Kitchen

I absolutely love making Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight on cozy mornings. The creamy texture combined with the rich flavors of coconut and spices warms my heart and sets the perfect tone for the day. It’s a dish that reminds me of lazy weekends spent with family, sharing stories and laughter over a comforting bowl of porridge. Plus, it’s surprisingly simple to make, allowing me to indulge in a breakfast that feels both special and nourishing without too much effort.

Created by

Rafael

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:41:28.193Z

Making Authentic Jamaican Porridge Delight transports me back to my childhood, where the aroma of spices filled the kitchen. I remember spending mornings watching my grandmother stir the pot, adding just the right amount of coconut milk and a sprinkle of nutmeg, which made the experience truly irresistible. It’s a recipe that showcases the beauty of simplicity in cooking.

One of my favorite tips is to let the porridge sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld beautifully and gives the porridge a thicker, creamier texture. Pair it with ripe bananas or a drizzle of honey for a delicious topping that takes it over the top.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy coconut base with a hint of spices
Nutritious and filling, perfect for breakfast
Can be customized with your favorite toppings

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The core ingredient of this Jamaican porridge is cornmeal, which provides a hearty and wholesome base. When selecting cornmeal, go for a fine or medium grind to ensure a smooth texture that cooks evenly. This helps prevent lumps and ensures a delightful mouthfeel. Cornmeal is also packed with nutrients, including fiber and essential vitamins, making it a great choice for starting your day with a nourishing breakfast.

Coconut milk is another key component, adding a rich creaminess and unmistakable tropical flavor. You can choose full-fat coconut milk for a luxurious porridge or light coconut milk if you’re looking for a lower-fat option. The natural sweetness of the coconut milk complements the brown sugar and spices beautifully, creating a well-rounded flavor profile. I love to use freshly opened coconut milk, as it provides a deeper flavor and creaminess.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Porridge

When cooking the cornmeal mixture, it’s crucial to whisk continuously as you add the cornmeal to the boiling water. This process helps to incorporate air and prevents any lumps from forming. Keep the heat low once you start simmering to allow the mixture to thicken gradually without burning on the bottom. You'll know it's ready when it has a creamy, pudding-like texture; it should coat the back of a spoon smoothly.

After adding the coconut milk and spices, cooking for an additional 5-10 minutes allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Pay attention to the stirrings during this time to prevent sticking. If your porridge becomes too thick, you can stir in extra water or coconut milk to reach your desired consistency. A perfect balance of thickness will ensure that each spoonful is rich and satisfying without being overly heavy.

Serving Suggestions and Customization

While this Jamaican porridge is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to elevate it further with toppings. Sliced bananas add a natural sweetness and complement the spices well, while a drizzle of honey not only enhances the flavor but also adds a lovely sheen. Chopped nuts, like almonds or walnuts, can introduce a satisfying crunch and some healthy fats. Consider adding a sprinkle of toasted coconut for an extra tropical flair.

This recipe is also highly adaptable. If you're looking to switch it up, try adding other spices such as cardamom or allspice for a different flavor profile. You can also substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup or a sugar alternative for a healthier twist. The flexibility allows you to tailor your pudding to your taste preferences while still retaining the beloved essence of Jamaican porridge.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your Jamaican Porridge Delight:

Ingredients

1 cup cornmeal
4 cups water
1 cup coconut milk
1/4 tsp salt
1/2 tsp nutmeg
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup brown sugar
Bananas and honey for serving (optional)

Make sure to use fresh coconut milk for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your porridge:

Prepare the Base

In a large pot, bring the water to a boil. Gradually whisk in the cornmeal to avoid lumps, stirring constantly.

Cook the Mixture

Reduce the heat to low and let the cornmeal mixture simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring frequently until it thickens.

Add Flavors

Stir in the coconut milk, salt, nutmeg, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and brown sugar. Mix well and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove from heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Serve hot topped with sliced bananas and a drizzle of honey, if desired.

Enjoy your warm and comforting bowl of porridge!

Pro Tips

Try adding a pinch of ginger or a splash of almond extract for a unique twist on this classic recipe.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

You can prepare the porridge in advance for busy mornings. Cook it according to the instructions, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat it slowly on the stove, adding a splash of water or coconut milk until it reaches the desired consistency.

Freezing is also an option. Portion the cooled porridge into freezer-safe containers and store them for up to a month. To defrost, let it thaw in the fridge overnight, and heat it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adjusting with extra liquid as needed for creaminess.

Common Troubleshooting

If your porridge turns out lumpy despite your expectations, don’t despair! You can blend it with an immersion blender after it’s cooked, which will smooth out the texture beautifully. Alternatively, whisking vigorously during cooking can also help to break any stubborn lumps before serving.

Should your porridge become too thick once it cools, remember that you can always adjust it back to the right consistency. Just add a little water or coconut milk and stir over low heat until warmed through. The key is to be flexible and adjust as needed to achieve your perfect bowl of porridge.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled up or down depending on your needs. For larger gatherings or family breakfasts, simply double or triple the ingredients. Just be mindful to use a larger pot to accommodate the increased volume while making sure to stir thoroughly to maintain an even texture throughout the cooking process.

Conversely, if you're cooking for one or two, you can make half the recipe without adjusting cooking times too significantly. Just keep an eye on the porridge, as it may thicken more quickly with smaller quantities. This way, you can enjoy a fresh and warm serving of Jamaican porridge anytime you desire.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other grains instead of cornmeal?

Yes, you can substitute with oatmeal or rice flour, but the cooking time may vary.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! As it uses cornmeal, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

→ Can I make this porridge vegan?

Yes, just ensure all ingredients like coconut milk and sweeteners are plant-based.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of coconut milk to restore creaminess.