Kentucky-style Cornmeal Porridge

Ingredients

While the original Klappgröt is typically made with regular milk, the Kentucky-style Cornmeal Porridge incorporates buttermilk to give it a tangy and creamy flavor. Additionally, the traditional Swedish version is often served with lingonberry jam, but in this adaptation, we suggest serving it with a drizzle of maple syrup or a pat of butter to enhance the Southern influence. We alse have the original recipe for Klappgröt, so you can check it out.

• 1 cup (235ml) stone-ground cornmeal 1 cup (235ml) stone-ground cornmeal
• 4 cups (950ml) buttermilk 4 cups (950ml) buttermilk
• 2 cups (470ml) water 2 cups (470ml) water
• 2 tablespoons butter 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Maple syrup or butter, for serving Maple syrup or butter, for serving

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 280 kcal / 1172 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 9g, 5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 43g, 12g
• Protein: 9g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, bring the water and buttermilk to a gentle boil over medium heat.
2. 2.
   Slowly whisk in the cornmeal, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, for about 20 minutes or until the porridge thickens to your desired consistency.
4. 4.
   Stir in the butter, brown sugar, salt, and nutmeg until well combined.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and let the porridge rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. 6.
   Serve the Kentucky-style Cornmeal Porridge hot, drizzled with maple syrup or topped with a pat of butter.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cornmeal — Use stone-ground cornmeal for the best texture and flavor in the porridge.
• Buttermilk — If you don't have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of regular milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes before using.
• Nutmeg — Freshly grated nutmeg will provide the best aroma and flavor to the porridge.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of heavy cream or milk to the porridge before serving.
• Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less brown sugar according to your taste preferences.
• Experiment with toppings such as chopped nuts, dried fruits, or a sprinkle of cinnamon to add extra flavor and texture.

Serving advice

Serve the Kentucky-style Cornmeal Porridge as a comforting breakfast dish or as a side to accompany Southern-style meals. It pairs well with crispy bacon, fried eggs, or a side of fresh fruit.

Presentation advice

Serve the porridge in individual bowls, drizzled with maple syrup or topped with a pat of butter. Garnish with a sprinkle of ground nutmeg or a sprig of fresh mint for an elegant touch.