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Charred Sweet Corn Porridge

Warm, creamy, and kissed with the flavor of grilled corn, this Charred Sweet Corn Porridge is a Caribbean-inspired twist on a traditional comfort food. The char adds a gentle smokiness that beautifully complements the sweet coconut and nutmeg notes, creating a perfect bowl for cool mornings or cozy evenings.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Course: Breakfast, Caribbean Classics, Winter Recipes

Ingredients
  

  • 3 ears sweet corn about 2 cups kernels
  • 2 1/2 cups water divided
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • 1 1/2 cups evaporated milk
  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon nutmeg divided
  • 3/4 cup sweetened condensed milk
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries optional
  • 1 bay leaf optional
  • 1 stick cinnamon optional, in place of powder

Method
 

  1. Grill the corn until lightly charred to add a smoky undertone to the finished porridge. Allow to cool, then carefully remove the kernels from the cob using a sharp knife.
  2. Place about 3/4 of the grilled corn into a blender along with the coconut milk and 1 cup of water. Blend until smooth.
  3. Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan. Add the remaining water, evaporated milk, cornmeal, and salt. Stir well to combine.
  4. Add the remaining grilled corn kernels, ground cinnamon (or cinnamon stick), vanilla extract, sweetened condensed milk, and half of the nutmeg. If using, add the bay leaf.
  5. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. Add the dried cranberries or other dried fruit if using. Continue to cook for about 10 minutes, or until the porridge reaches your desired thickness.
  6. Remove from heat, adjust the salt to taste, and sprinkle with the remaining nutmeg. Serve warm and enjoy.

Notes

What makes charred sweet corn porridge different from traditional cornmeal porridge?

Charred sweet corn porridge uses fresh grilled corn blended into the mixture, creating a naturally sweet, smoky, and creamy texture. Traditional cornmeal porridge is made with dried cornmeal and has a more uniform, grainy consistency.

Can I make this corn porridge vegan?

Yes. Substitute evaporated milk with more coconut milk or almond milk, and use a plant-based sweetener instead of condensed milk.

How can I make the porridge thicker or thinner?

Cook longer for a thicker porridge, or add a bit of warm milk or water to loosen the texture if it thickens too much.

Can I prepare this corn porridge ahead of time?

Absolutely. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water.

What toppings go well with corn porridge?

Dried cranberries, raisins, toasted coconut, or a sprinkle of nutmeg are all delicious finishing touches for this creamy Caribbean breakfast.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!