Ghanaian Cornmeal Porridge

Ingredients

While Funchi from Curaçao is typically made with cornmeal and water, Ghanaian Cornmeal Porridge incorporates milk for a creamier texture. The addition of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg gives the Ghanaian version a warm and aromatic flavor profile. Additionally, the Ghanaian version is sweetened with natural sweeteners like honey or sugar, and a hint of vanilla extract is added for extra depth of flavor. We alse have the original recipe for Funchi, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (180g) cornmeal 1 cup (180g) cornmeal
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 2 cups (470ml) milk 2 cups (470ml) milk
• 1 cinnamon stick 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons honey or sugar 2 tablespoons honey or sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 5g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 15g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a saucepan, combine the cornmeal, water, milk, cinnamon stick, nutmeg, and salt.
2. 2.
   Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer the porridge for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to a smooth consistency.
4. 4.
   Remove the cinnamon stick from the porridge.
5. 5.
   Stir in the honey or sugar and vanilla extract, adjusting the sweetness to your preference.
6. 6.
   Continue to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
7. 7.
   Remove from heat and let the porridge cool slightly before serving.
8. 8.
   Serve warm in bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg, if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Make sure to use fine cornmeal for a smooth texture in the porridge.
• Cinnamon stick — If you don't have a cinnamon stick, you can substitute with 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon.
• Honey or sugar — Adjust the amount of sweetener according to your taste preferences.

Tips & Tricks

• To prevent lumps, gradually add the cornmeal to the liquid while stirring continuously.
• For a richer flavor, you can use coconut milk instead of regular milk.
• Adjust the consistency of the porridge by adding more milk or water if desired.
• Experiment with different spices like ginger or cloves for a unique twist.
• Serve the porridge with a sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes for added texture.

Serving advice

Ghanaian Cornmeal Porridge is best served warm in bowls. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg for an extra touch of flavor. Enjoy it as a comforting breakfast or a satisfying snack throughout the day.

Presentation advice

When serving Ghanaian Cornmeal Porridge, consider using colorful bowls or traditional Ghanaian pottery to enhance the visual appeal. You can also drizzle a swirl of honey on top or sprinkle some cinnamon for an elegant presentation.