Whenever I think about porridge, I'm reminded of my first year in Minneapolis with my roommate. Back then, I often skipped breakfast, but she made a big pot of oatmeal every morning. I'd stick to my cup of tea while she raved about her beloved oatmeal. Fast forward to now, and I've completely embraced hearty breakfasts, especially cozy bowls of grains like this one, paying tribute to our time together.

First off, let's clarify what porridge really is. Oatmeal falls under the porridge umbrella, but porridge encompasses a range of warm, grain-based dishes named after the grain used. It's inviting, satisfying, and can be dressed up with your favorite toppings. In this recipe, I use toasted amaranth, fragrant cardamom, and sweet maple pears to create a delightful winter breakfast.

spiced pear oatmeal recipe

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Ingredients for Cardamom Pear Porridge

This porridge features simple ingredients, but choose the best quality to ensure maximum flavor.

Amaranth. While you can opt for any grain, I enjoy amaranth's unique, nutty sweetness.

Butter or oil. This is optional, but I like to toast my grains in butter or olive oil for a richer taste.

Cardamom. This aromatic spice is my favorite and pairs wonderfully with amaranth.

Cream or milk. Adjust according to your preference for richness; sometimes I blend them!

Pears. Feel free to substitute with apples, peaches in summer, figs, or your favorite fruits.

Maple syrup. This adds flavor and helps caramelize the fruit.

Brown sugar. It complements the maple syrup, enhancing sweetness.

Salt. A pinch balances the flavors and sweetness perfectly.

Toppings. Here's where you can get creative with your favorites!

amaranth porridge

Preparation Tips

  • Get your grains-to-liquid ratio right. I prefer my porridge slightly thinner, typically using a ratio of 1:2.5 or even 1:3 for grains to liquid. For this recipe, it's one cup of amaranth to about 2-2.5 cups of milk or cream, plus an extra half-cup of water.
  • Toast the grains first. For enhanced flavor, I toast the grains in the pot with the cardamom before adding any liquid.
  • Use room temperature liquid. It's best if the milk is at room temperature, but I've used cold milk, too. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring until it thickens.
  • Salt your porridge. It might seem odd for a sweet dish, but adding salt elevates the overall flavor.
  • Add the pears. Combine maple syrup, brown sugar, and salt in a pot over low to medium heat. Stir in the pears and cook until they just soften. You can also incorporate pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
pear porridge

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Cardamom Pear Porridge Toppings

Porridge is great for experimenting with toppings. In this recipe, I keep it simple with hemp seeds, pecans, a touch of nut butter, and honey. In warmer months, I love adding jams, fresh fruits, coconut, or yogurt for protein. You could even throw in chocolate for a decadent twist.

cardamom amaranth porridge

Description

A comforting and easy breakfast ideal for any morning.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter or oil (optional)
  • 1 cup amaranth
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2–2 1/2 cups milk or cream of choice (room temperature)
  • 1/2 cup water (room temperature)
  • 1 tablespoon sweetener of choice
  • 1–2 large pears, sliced
  • 3 tablespoons maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • pinch of salt
  • toppings of choice

Instructions

  1. In a pot, heat the butter (or toast amaranth dry) over medium heat. Add amaranth, cardamom, and salt, toasting for a couple of minutes until fragrant. Pour in milk, water, and sweetener. Bring to a gentle boil, cover, and stir occasionally until thickened, about 20–25 minutes.
  2. While the porridge cooks, prepare the pears. In another pan, combine maple syrup, brown sugar, and salt over low to medium heat. Add pears, coating them in the syrup, and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Serve warm porridge in bowls topped with pears and any additional toppings. I like to drizzle a splash of milk or cream on top, along with seeds, nuts, and fruits. Enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 15
  • Category: breakfast

Keywords: porridge, oatmeal, amaranth