Is oatmeal and porridge the same?
Oatmeal and porridge are exactly the same thing - it’s a traditional breakfast recipe of oats mixed with water or milk and cooked, either in the microwave or on the stove. In America and Canada, they tend to call it oatmeal and often use steel-cut oats, whereas in England and Australia, we call it porridge and make it using rolled oats. These days, you can also get instant oats whereby the oats are finely shredded and rolled thinner to speed up the cooking process.
Is porridge good for you?
As the prime ingredient of porridge is oats, porridge is incredibly good for you. According to taste.com.au expert nutrition editor, Chrissy Freer, oats are an extremely nutritious grain. They are rich in dietary fibre, especially a type of soluble fibre called beta glucan, and higher in protein and many vitamins and minerals when compared to other grains. Oats are also packed with several antioxidants with disease-fighting properties.
Is porridge better with milk or water?
Porridge can be made with milk or water, it just depends on what you prefer. Using water will lower the calories in the dish, while milk will make it creamier. We like to use both for the perfect consistency and taste.
What is the best way to eat porridge?
What we love about porridge is all the different ways you can eat it. Whether on its own, or topped with fresh, dried or stewed fruit, yoghurt, compots, or spices, you’re only limited by your imagination. Check out all our porridge recipes here and some quick and easy ideas below:
- Top with 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/4 cup brown sugar. Drizzle with pouring cream.
- Top with 1/3 cup vanilla yoghurt, 1/3 cup chopped pistachios and 1 tablespoon honey.
- Stir 2 grated granny smith apples into porridge after removing from heat. Sprinkle with ground cinnamon or mixed spice to serve.
- Add 1/3 cup sultanas, 1/3 cup chopped dried apricots and 1/3 cup craisins during cooking.
