Breadfruit Porridge: Creamy, Comforting, and Perfect for Breakfast

Ingredient Overview

Let’s see what goes into this delicious bowl, and talk about helpful swaps or additions:

• Breadfruit (200g, mashed):
  Breadfruit is a starchy tropical fruit with a mild, slightly nutty flavor. When cooked, it becomes soft and easily mashed—perfect for porridge. Use fresh, cooked breadfruit for best results. If you can’t find breadfruit, steamed and mashed sweet potato or plantain are good stand-ins.

• Coconut Milk (500ml):
  For classic, rich flavor and creamy texture. Full-fat canned coconut milk is traditional, but “lite” coconut milk or even almond milk can be used for a lighter version.

• Water (500ml):
  Used for boiling and cooking the breadfruit until soft and thick.

• Sugar (2 tbsp):
  Just enough for gentle sweetness. Brown sugar, coconut sugar, or honey can also be used. Adjust to taste if you like your porridge sweeter or less sweet.

• Salt (1 tsp):
  Adds depth and brings out the natural flavors. Don’t skip it—salt is essential for balancing sweet dishes!

Optional Add-Ins & Substitutions:

• Add a dash of nutmeg, cinnamon, or vanilla for extra warmth and aroma.

• For more nutrition, swirl in a spoonful of ground flaxseed or chia seeds at the end.

• Top with sliced bananas, toasted coconut flakes, or chopped nuts for crunch.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)*

• Calories: ~250 kcal

• Carbohydrates: ~38g

• Protein: ~3g

• Fat: ~10g (mostly from coconut milk)

• Fiber: ~4g

• Sugar: ~9g

• Sodium: ~500mg

• Vitamins & Minerals: Rich in vitamin C, magnesium, potassium, and some B vitamins

*Nutritional values based on one serving (one-fourth of the recipe). Toppings/add-ins will change values slightly.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Breadfruit porridge comes together with just a few easy steps:

1. Boil the Water

• Pour 500ml water into a sturdy saucepan or pot.

• Bring the water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.

2. Add the Mashed Breadfruit

• Once boiling, add 200g of cooked, mashed breadfruit to the pot.

• Stir well so the breadfruit mixes evenly with the water.

• Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring regularly, for about 15 minutes. The mixture will gradually thicken as the breadfruit absorbs the water. Stir to prevent sticking and lumps (a wooden spoon or whisk works best).

3. Add Coconut Milk, Sugar, and Salt

• Pour in 500ml coconut milk.

• Add 2 tbsp sugar and 1 tsp salt.

• Stir everything together until fully combined and smooth.

• Continue to cook the porridge for another 3–5 minutes over medium-low heat, stirring often to avoid scorching. The porridge should be creamy and pourable, not runny or too stiff.

4. Serve Warm

• Pour the finished porridge into bowls while it’s still warm and creamy.

• Add any favorite toppings—like sliced fruit, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or raisins—for extra color and nutrition.

Tips and Tricks for the Best Breadfruit Porridge

• For Perfect Texture: Mash breadfruit smoothly before adding. If you prefer a chunkier porridge, leave some small pieces.

• Don’t Rush: Stir gently and consistently—breadfruit thickens quickly and can stick to the bottom of the pot.

• Make It Sweeter: Taste before serving. Some like extra sugar or a drizzle of honey!

• Add Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg adds warmth and classic Caribbean flavors.

• Storage: Leftover porridge thickens as it cools. Add a splash of coconut milk or water and stir while reheating to loosen it up.

Creative Serving Ideas

• Tropical Breakfast Bowl: Top your porridge with sliced banana, mango, or pineapple and a dusting of cinnamon for a Caribbean-inspired treat.

• Nutty Crunch: Add toasted almonds, cashews, or pumpkin seeds for more texture and protein.

• Make It Dessert: Serve chilled with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup and a dollop of yogurt.

• Kid-Friendly: Let kids sprinkle on a few raisins, chocolate chips, or shredded coconut.

• Portable Snack: Cool and pack into small containers for a filling snack at school or work.

FAQ: Breadfruit Porridge Questions Answered

1. What is breadfruit?
Breadfruit is a large, green, starchy fruit from tropical regions. When cooked, it has a texture similar to potatoes and is packed with vitamins and fiber.

2. Can I use leftover cooked breadfruit?
Definitely! Cold, cooked breadfruit works perfectly—just mash it before adding.

3. Is breadfruit porridge gluten-free?
Yes! Both breadfruit and coconut milk are naturally gluten-free.

4. Can I use plantains or sweet potatoes instead?
Absolutely. Both make delicious substitutes if breadfruit is hard to find.

5. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add extra coconut milk or water when reheating to reach your desired consistency.

6. Can I freeze breadfruit porridge?
It can be frozen, but texture may change a little. Thaw and stir well when reheating.