Porridge Recipe

Combine and heat liquids

In a medium saucepan, combine 1 cup whole milk and 1 cup water. Place over medium heat and bring to a gentle simmer (small bubbles around the edge), stirring occasionally to prevent a skin forming.

Add oats and salt

Stir in 1 cup rolled oats and 1 tsp salt. Reduce heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.

Cook until creamy

Cook, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon or spatula, for 6–8 minutes until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and reached a creamy consistency. For slightly thinner porridge cook toward the lower end; for thicker, cook a minute or two longer. If porridge becomes too thick, stir in up to 2–4 tbsp extra milk or water to loosen.

Finish and flavor

Remove saucepan from heat. Stir in 1 tbsp brown sugar (or adjust to taste), 1 tsp vanilla extract, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon until evenly incorporated. If using butter for extra creaminess, stir in 1 tsp now until melted.

Divide porridge between serving bowls. Top each bowl with sliced banana, a handful of fresh berries, and 2 tbsp chopped nuts. Drizzle with 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup if desired. Taste and adjust sweetness or cinnamon to preference. Serve immediately while hot.