English breakfast (Cherry porridge)

English breakfast with cherries: An energizing bowl of porridge

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Every morning, a nutritious and tasty breakfast can transform your day into an experience full of energy and vitality. Today, I invite you to discover the delicious recipe for English porridge with cherries, a dish that combines natural flavors with the nutritional benefits of oats and cherries. This dish is not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients, making it perfect for starting your day in a healthy way.

About porridge:
Porridge has a long history, being a popular breakfast choice in many cultures. It has evolved over the centuries, but its essence remains the same: a warm and comforting mix that nourishes both body and soul. With every spoonful, we are reminded of the simple and beautiful moments of mornings spent with loved ones.

Your basic ingredients:
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 4 cups water
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons honey (or brown sugar, if you prefer)
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 handful of unsalted mixed nuts
- 1 tablespoon flaxseeds (preferably ground)
- 200 g ripe cherries

Preparing cherry porridge

Step 1: Preparing the oat base
Start by placing the water in a pot over medium heat. Add the salt and wait until the water starts to boil. When the water reaches boiling point, add the rolled oats and stir well.

Step 2: Cooking the oats
Reduce the heat to low and let the oats simmer. At this point, it’s important to choose your preferred consistency: if you like your porridge softer, let it simmer longer. If you prefer it with slightly firmer oats, keep a close eye on it. It should be ready in about 10-15 minutes.

Step 3: Preparing the cherries
Meanwhile, wash the cherries with cold water and remove the pits. You can chop them finely if you prefer a smoother texture in your porridge, but if you like larger fruit pieces, you can leave them whole. If you have any juice left from the cherries, save it!

Step 4: Flavoring the porridge
When the oats are cooked to your liking, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. At this stage, add the cinnamon, honey (or brown sugar), and chopped cherries. Mix well to combine the flavors, being careful not to add the honey when the porridge is too hot, as high temperatures can destroy honey's beneficial properties.

Step 5: Serving the porridge
Finally, pour 2 tablespoons of cherry juice over your warm porridge. Sprinkle the unsalted nuts and a few whole or chopped cherries, and for a health boost, add the ground flaxseeds. These are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart and brain health.

Suggestions and variations:
- You can experiment with different types of fruit, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries, to add a variety of flavors.
- Instead of using water, you can cook the oats in almond milk or cow's milk for a creamier porridge.
- If you prefer a vegan breakfast, replace honey with maple syrup or agave.

Nutritional information:
This cherry porridge recipe provides an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber, helping to maintain energy throughout the morning. Rolled oats are known for their cholesterol-lowering properties and stabilizing blood sugar levels. Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, aiding in strengthening the immune system and reducing inflammation.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use instant oats?
Yes, but the cooking time will be much shorter, so make sure to follow the instructions on the package.

- What else can I add to the porridge?
You can add nuts, seeds, or even dark chocolate pieces for an extra flavor boost.

- How can I store leftovers?
If you have leftover porridge, store it in an airtight container in the fridge and reheat it the next day. You can add a little milk or water to restore its creamy consistency.

This cherry porridge breakfast will not only delight your taste buds but also provide you with the energy needed to face the day with a smile. So, put on your apron and let’s enjoy a healthy and delicious breakfast!