The Perfect...

Your cut-out-and-keep guide to the fundamentals of cooking

Porridge

As the producers of Ireland’s favourite porridge — over two million servings of Flahavan’s porridge are consumed each week — we know that the most important characteristic of the perfect porridge is a creamy texture.

Our Jumbo Oats, Progress Oatlets and Quick Oats each give a different consistency. For example, porridge made with Jumbo Oats takes longer to cook and generally has more ‘bite’.

The perfect porridge, made with traditional oats, can be cooked in approximately five minutes. This is the time it takes to release the starch of the oats, which develops the creaminess. I use traditional oats, as they give a delicious, smooth and creamy consistency while maintaining some light texture.

I use whole milk, but, for a vegan-friendly option, porridge can also be made with water, juice, or nut milks.

For years, I made my porridge with water, however recently I have begun making my porridge with milk only, as it gives the porridge an extra-creamy taste.

Whether you soak your porridge in advance is down to personal preference. I soak my porridge overnight, as it softens the oats, giving the perfect texture in the morning.

Some people like to add a pinch of salt to their porridge; it’s quite common in Scotland and the North. The pinch of salt adds depth to the flavour of the porridge and brings out the sweetness of any toppings.

In some countries, such as Korea, porridge is more commonly eaten as a savoury dish, with salt, ginseng, garlic and anchovies often being added.

There is no definitive answer for the ‘correct’ consistency of porridge. The basic rule we follow is to use a ratio of two parts liquid to one part oats, though I always add more liquid to get the consistency I like. To get ‘your’ correct consistency, play around with the ratio.

Porridge is the perfect canvas to which you can add so many tasty things. For a healthy start to the day, add Greek yoghurt, mixed berries, coconut flakes and chia seeds.

For something more indulgent, peanut butter, grated dark chocolate and a chopped banana is delicious. And for a classic comforting recipe at this time of the year, try diced apple, dried cranberries, honey and cinnamon.