Ting
Fermented Sorghum Porridge
A traditional South African breakfast porridge made from fermented sorghum. It has a distinct sour flavor from the fermentation process, balanced with sweetness. Can be enjoyed warm or cold.
🧂 Ingredients
- 2 cups (approximately 250g) Sorghum flour(Ensure it's finely ground sorghum flour for best results.)
- 4 cups (approximately 950ml) Water(Divided: 2 cups for initial fermentation, 2 cups for cooking.)
- to taste Sugar(Optional, for serving. Honey or other sweeteners can also be used.)
- Pinch (optional) Salt(Can enhance the flavor.)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Prepare the starter: In a clean bowl or jar, combine the 2 cups of sorghum flour with 2 cups of lukewarm water (around 30-35°C / 85-95°F). Stir well until smooth, ensuring there are no lumps. Cover the bowl loosely with a clean cloth or lid (do not seal tightly to allow air circulation) and leave it in a warm place to ferment for 12-18 hours, or until it develops a pleasant sour aroma and slightly bubbly texture. The longer it ferments, the sourer it will become.
⏱️ 12-18 hours - 2
Cook the porridge: Once fermented, transfer the sorghum starter to a medium saucepan. Add the remaining 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt, if using. Whisk continuously over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming and to ensure even cooking. The porridge will begin to thicken.
⏱️ 5-10 minutes - 3
Simmer until cooked: Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook, stirring frequently, for another 25-30 minutes. The porridge should become thick and creamy, with a smooth consistency. Taste a small amount to ensure the raw flour taste is gone. If it's still too thin, continue cooking for a few more minutes. If it becomes too thick, you can stir in a little more hot water.
⏱️ 25-30 minutes - 4
Serve: Ladle the hot Ting into bowls. Sweeten to taste with sugar, honey, or your preferred sweetener. Ting can be served warm as a hearty breakfast or chilled as a refreshing meal.
⏱️ 5 minutes
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓The sourness of Ting comes from the natural fermentation process. Adjust fermentation time to your preference.
- ✓Stirring constantly during cooking is crucial to achieve a smooth, lump-free porridge.
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of milk or cream when serving.
- ✓If you prefer a less sour taste, reduce the fermentation time or use a shorter fermentation period.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Serve with fresh milk or yogurt for a creamier texture.
- Add a spoonful of peanut butter for extra protein and flavor.
- Incorporate spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a different flavor profile.