First posted: Jul 14, 2017

Creamy Millet Porridge with Sticky Figs

This is a healthy, creamy, comforting winter favourite and a fun alternative to good old oats. Plus! Toppings galore. And what’s porridge without a handsome crowning of delicious bits and bobs? Here I’ve mentioned wintery pears or apples, although the recipe was originally made when figs were in season, but anything from caramelised bananas to berries or stone fruit would be just as happy and at home.

Ingredients

Cooks in:30 minutes Serves:2

For the Porridge

1/2 cup millet
1 cup water
1/2 cup milk of your choice (and a little more to add along the way if necessary)
1 tsp vanilla paste or extract
1/2 tsp cinnamon
Pinch salt

To Serve

1 pear OR 1 apple OR 3 figs OR 1 banana OR 2 stone fruit OR handful frozen berries, roughly chopped
1/2 Tbsp butter
1/2 Tbsp honey/maple syrup/coconut sugar
Handful chopped toasted nuts
Handful chopped toasted mixed seeds

What to do

1. In a medium-sized pot, gently toast your millet for a minute or so over a low heat, just until lightly fragrant. Add in the water, milk, vanilla, cinnamon and salt and simmer gently, partially covered, for 20 minutes or until cooked through and fluffy, adding in extra water or milk as you go, depending on the desired consistency.

2. Fry the fruit of your choice in a non-stick pan along with the butter and natural sweetener of your choice until sticky and starting to caramelise.

3. Serve the porridge with your chosen toppings and an extra drizzle of milk and maple syrup if you like.

Notes
You could also add in grated apple or pear to the millet itself, along with a handful or raisins or cranberries for an extra burst of sweetness.
Photo Credit: Curtis Gallon