Malian Sorghum Porridge with Dates
A hearty and naturally sweet breakfast porridge made from sorghum, a staple grain in Mali, enriched with the sweetness of dates and a hint of warming spice. This comforting dish is perfect for a nourishing start to your day.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 cup Sorghum flour(Finely ground sorghum flour is recommended for a smoother texture. If using coarser flour, you may need to cook it slightly longer.)
- 4 cups Water(Cold water is best for initial mixing to prevent lumps.)
- 1/2 cup Dates(Pitted and finely chopped. Medjool dates or other soft, sweet varieties work well.)
- 1/2 tsp Ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp Ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp Salt(Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness.)
- to taste Honey or sugar(Optional, for added sweetness. Maple syrup or agave nectar can also be used.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
In a medium saucepan (at least 2-quart capacity), combine the sorghum flour with 1 cup of cold water. Whisk vigorously until a completely smooth paste forms, ensuring there are no lumps. This initial step is crucial for a lump-free porridge.
- 2
Gradually whisk in the remaining 3 cups of water until well combined. Add the finely chopped dates, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt to the mixture. Stir everything together until evenly distributed.
- 3
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly with a whisk or wooden spoon. Be sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the pot to prevent the sorghum from sticking and burning.
- 4
Once simmering, reduce the heat to low. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, for approximately 25-30 minutes. The porridge should thicken to a creamy, pudding-like consistency. If it becomes too thick, you can add a splash more water. If it's too thin, continue simmering for a few more minutes.
- 5
Taste the porridge and stir in honey, sugar, or your preferred sweetener, if desired, until it reaches your desired level of sweetness. Serve the Malian Sorghum Porridge hot, perhaps with a sprinkle of extra cinnamon.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure sorghum flour is finely ground for a smoother porridge. If using coarser flour, the texture will be more rustic.
- ✓Constant stirring, especially during the initial simmering phase, is essential to prevent the porridge from sticking to the bottom of the pot and developing a burnt flavor.
- ✓The amount of water can be adjusted to achieve your preferred porridge consistency – use less for a thicker porridge, more for a thinner one.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can toast the sorghum flour lightly in a dry pan over medium-low heat for a few minutes until fragrant before starting the recipe. Be careful not to burn it.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- For added creaminess, stir in a splash of milk (dairy or non-dairy like almond, soy, or coconut milk) during the last 5 minutes of cooking or just before serving.
- Top with fresh fruit such as sliced bananas, diced mangoes, or berries for added freshness and texture.
- Stir in a tablespoon of smooth or crunchy peanut butter towards the end of cooking for a nutty flavor and extra protein boost.
- Add a pinch of ground ginger or cardamom along with the cinnamon and nutmeg for a more complex spice profile.