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Cornmeal porridge in white bowl topped with blueberries and orange slices.
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5 from 5 votes

Cornmeal Porridge

A creamy cornmeal porridge made with coconut milk, warm spices, and lightly sweetened with maple syrup. It's a healthy, hearty alternative to oatmeal that makes for a simple and quick breakfast!
Prep Time0 minutes
Cook Time15 minutes
Total Time15 minutes
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Jamaican
Diet: Gluten Free, Vegan, Vegetarian
Servings: 4
Calories: 301kcal
Author: Alison Corey

Ingredients

  • 2 cups water
  • 15 oz light coconut milk 1 can
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ cup maple syrup
  • fresh fruit of choice

Instructions

  • Add water and coconut milk to a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Whisk together to combine. Add the cinnamon stick and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat to a simmer. Slowly add the cornmeal a little at a time, whisking consistently to avoid any lumps from forming.
  • Allow to cook uncovered for about 10 minutes, whisking every now and again to prevent clumping.
  • Once the cornmeal has thickened add the vanilla, nutmeg, salt, and maple syrup. Whisk together until combined. Remove from heat.
  • Remove the cinnamon stick from the pot. Add the porridge to 4 bowls, and serve topped with your favorite fruit and a dash of cinnamon.

Notes

Tips for Making Cornmeal Porridge
  • Will keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Warm in the microwave. You may want to add a bit more water or coconut milk to bring it back to a creamy texture, as it will firm up and gel when kept in the refrigerator.
  • Whisk consistently to avoid lumpy porridge.
  • When buying your cornmeal use a fine cornmeal for a creamier texture, or use a coarse cornmeal for a heartier texture.
  • Reduce the overall sugar by using half the maple syrup, or leave it out completely.
  • Add any fruit you like on top, or serve plain with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg.
  • Reduce the overall fat and calories by substituting the coconut milk with almond milk or soy milk.
  • Use coconut sugar instead of maple syrup if you prefer. Avoid brown sugar, as it is a refined sugar, and often not vegan friendly.

Nutrition

Calories: 301kcal | Carbohydrates: 47g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 9g | Saturated Fat: 8g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 1g | Sodium: 243mg | Potassium: 179mg | Fiber: 4g | Sugar: 13g | Vitamin A: 3IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 37mg | Iron: 1mg