Porridge Season. Five of a kind.

Words and Photography by Emma Cantlay

As the colder mornings close in on us, so does the need for a warming breakfast. Porridge season has officially started. We take a look at our favourite toppings for the hearty bowl of oats…

Roasted or Stewed Fruit

Hot porridge, cold fruit. I love to roast or stew my fruit before bed and leave it in the fridge overnight - it makes mornings so much easier too! Stone fruits are great for roasting, plums are my ultimate favourite. As for stewing, rhubarb is great or apples, along with a little cinnamon and a handful of raisins.

Banana and Peanut Butter

This is the ultimate morning kick starter. Not only is banana and peanut butter the greatest taste combination - it will also keep you fuelled all the way until lunch time! We halved our bananas lengthways and grilled them to bring out all the delicious caramel flavour. Add some crunchy organic peanut butter and finish with some lightly toasted nuts for the ultimate power breakfast!

Chocolate Orange

Who doesn’t love a Chocolate Orange!? To transform this into an acceptable breakfast, we’ve used slices of blood orange and a couple dark chocolate buttons. A sprinkling of flaked sea salt and a drizzle of tahini really sets it off. Toasted nuts and seeds also give it a lovely crunch.

A Dollop of Jam

Homemade, a present from your gran or simply bought at the supermarket. Whatever jam you have, its a failsafe with porridge! I always have a good selection of open jams in the cupboard, ready for the weekday breakfast. Similarly, honey is always a good choice on porridge too. Set or runny, it’s up to you!

Oats on Oats

It may sound a little odd, but I love granola on my porridge! Top it with some yoghurt, a little jam or honey and then a couple of spoonfuls of your favourite granola.