Welcome to our kitchen! Today, we’re making a delicious and wholesome breakfast: Millet Porridge with Berries. This recipe is perfect for a nutritious start to your day, combining the hearty texture of millet with the vibrant flavors of fresh berries. Let’s get started!

Ingredients:

• For the Millet Porridge:
  • 1 cup millet
  • 2 cups water
  • 2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
  • 1/4 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1-2 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
• For the Berry Topping:
  • 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
  • 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
  • 1 tsp lemon juice
• Optional Garnishes:
  • Chopped nuts (almonds, walnuts, pecans)
  • Chia seeds or flaxseeds
  • Fresh mint leaves
  • Additional milk for serving

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Millet:
   • Rinse the millet under cold water to remove any dust or impurities.
   • In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed millet and salt.
   • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until the water is absorbed and the millet is tender.
2. Cook the Porridge:
   • Once the millet is cooked, add 2 cups of milk to the saucepan.
   • Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
   • Cook for another 10-15 minutes until the porridge reaches your desired consistency. For a creamier texture, add more milk as needed.
   • Stir in the vanilla extract and honey or maple syrup (if using).
3. Prepare the Berry Topping:
   • While the porridge is cooking, rinse and prepare the berries.
   • In a small bowl, combine the mixed berries with honey or maple syrup (if using) and lemon juice. Toss gently to coat the berries evenly.
4. Serve the Porridge:
   • Divide the millet porridge into serving bowls.
   • Top each bowl with a generous portion of the berry mixture.
5. Add Garnishes:
   • Sprinkle with chopped nuts, chia seeds, or flaxseeds for added texture and nutrition.
   • Garnish with fresh mint leaves for a pop of color and flavor.
   • Add a splash of additional milk if desired.
6. Enjoy:
   • Serve the Millet Porridge with Berries warm, and enjoy a hearty and nutritious breakfast!

Tips and Variations:

• Make Ahead: Prepare the millet porridge in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat with a splash of milk before serving.
• Different Fruits: Substitute the berries with other seasonal fruits such as peaches, apples, or bananas.
• Spices: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the porridge for extra warmth and flavor.
• Protein Boost: Stir in a spoonful of nut butter or a scoop of protein powder to the porridge for added protein.

This Millet Porridge with Berries is a wholesome and satisfying breakfast option that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients. Its creamy texture combined with the fresh, sweet-tart berries makes it a perfect way to start your day. Enjoy making and savoring this delicious and nutritious porridge!