Apple Porridge with Pecan

Apple porridge does not have to be boring!

Our apple porridge with pecan recipe, adapted from Jamie Oliver's website, is a great one for adults and little ones to enjoy on cool mornings. Delicious and nutritious, our apples are bursting with fibre, antioxidants, polyphenols and Vitamin C. The pecans are full of healthy fats and vitamins, whilst oats are rich in fibre, vitamins and minerals. 

Ingredients

• 160g rolled oats
• 600ml milk of your choice, with water as an alternative
• 30g unsalted pecans
• 1 eating apple
• Splash of maple syrup

Method

1. Place the oats and the milk (or water) into a large pan over a medium heat.
2. Add a tiny pinch of sea salt.
3. Bring to a steady simmer for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring often for a smooth, creamy porridge. 
4. Add extra milk if needed. 
5. While the porridge is simmering, prepare the apple and pecan topping.
6. Snap the pecans into little pieces.
7. Toast in a small dry non-stick frying pan over a medium heat for 3 to 4 minutes, or until lightly golden.
8. Remove the apple stalk and use a box grater to coarsely grate onto a chopping board (core and all).
9. Stir the grated apple and a little maple syrup through then porridge.
10. Divide between the bowls.
11. Scatter pecans on top and drizzle with a little extra maple syrup.

Add cinnamon or creamy yoghurt for a twist. Serve with our delicious Summer Snow still juices.

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The Apple Porridge with Pecan is a heartwarming dish that seamlessly blends the aromatic sweetness of apples with the nutty crunch of pecans. A spoonful transports you to a world of creamy richness, punctuated with textures and flavours that feel both indulgent and wholesome.

Delving into the Australian context, porridge has long been a staple in many households, particularly during the cooler months. Traditional porridges in Australia have been predominantly oat-based, mirroring British culinary influences. However, as Australia evolved, so did its palate. The introduction and adoption of diverse ingredients were influenced by waves of immigrants and their culinary traditions. Apples, for instance, have a rich history down under. Since the First Fleet arrived in 1788, apple cultivation has flourished, especially in regions like Tasmania, which is often fondly referred to as the "Apple Isle."

On the other hand, pecans, though not native to Australia, found a welcoming home in its rich soils. By the 20th century, pecan farming had established itself, especially in New South Wales and Queensland. The fusion of apples and pecans in a porridge dish signifies Australia's journey in embracing global ingredients while staying rooted in traditional comforts. It's a dish celebrating Australia's agricultural successes and multicultural tapestry.

Health Benefits

Embarking on a day with a bowl of apple porridge ensures you're satisfying your taste buds and nourishing your body. Let's delve into the nutritional powerhouse that this dish is:

• Apples: Often heralded as nature's candy, apples are a fantastic dietary fibre and vitamin C source. They're also rich in antioxidants, ensuring you get a daily dose of compounds that combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
• Pecans: These buttery nuts aren't just about flavour; they're teeming with health benefits. Pecans are a great source of monounsaturated fats, zinc, magnesium, and dietary fibre. Moreover, they're known to promote heart health and assist in lowering LDL cholesterol levels.
• Oats: A tried and tested breakfast staple, oats are whole grains that provide an impressive amount of nutrients, including fibre, protein, magnesium, iron, and B vitamins. Their slow-releasing carbohydrates mean a stable and prolonged energy supply, ensuring you remain satiated and energetic for longer.

Combining these ingredients, apple porridge with pecan is a balanced breakfast option. It offers a harmonious blend of macronutrients, with carbohydrates from the oats and apples, protein from the oats, and healthy fats from the pecans. Additionally, the high fibre content aids digestion. It ensures a steady release of energy, making this dish an ideal start to a productive day.

Serving Suggestions

There's something inherently comforting about a bowl of apple porridge, making it a versatile dish suitable for various occasions. Here are some suggestions to make the most of your apple porridge experience.

Best Times to Enjoy Apple Porridge

Apple porridge is not just confined to breakfast; its versatility shines throughout the day. Kickstarting your morning with this fulfilling bowl ensures a metabolism boost and offers sustained energy to navigate the early hours. 

However, suppose you find yourself craving a light yet heartwarming supper. In that case, this dish emerges as an impeccable choice, particularly on cooler evenings. And for those midday lulls? A smaller serving of apple porridge can rejuvenate your senses, offering a perfect balance of nutrition and comfort, ensuring you're revitalized for the afternoon ahead.

Beverage Pairings

• Herbal Teas: A cup of chamomile or peppermint tea can complement the creamy texture of apple porridge, making for a harmonious breakfast pairing.

• Fresh Juices: A glass of fresh orange or apple juice can enhance the fruity notes of the porridge, making the meal feel even more refreshing.

• Cider: For a more indulgent pairing, especially during autumn, a glass of apple cider can beautifully resonate with the flavours of the apple porridge.

Toppings or Additions

• Sweet Drizzles: Enhance the natural sweetness of the apple porridge with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup. This not only adds a sugary twist but also introduces beneficial antioxidants.
• Nutty Crunch: Besides pecans, add a handful of walnuts or almonds for a texture and nutrition boost.
• Seedy Goodness: Chia seeds or flaxseeds can be sprinkled on your apple porridge. They add a subtle crunch and infuse the dish with Omega-3 fatty acids and additional fibre.

Variations of the Recipe

Crafting the perfect bowl of apple porridge means tailoring it to personal or dietary needs, and the flexibility of this dish allows for a multitude of variations. For those following a gluten-free diet, replace traditional oats with certified ones to ensure digestive comfort. 

Vegan enthusiasts can relish the creamy texture of apple porridge by using almond milk, coconut milk, or other plant-based alternatives instead of dairy. Beyond dietary adjustments, seasonal twists can make this dish an all-year favourite. 

As autumn leaves fall, infusing your apple porridge with spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a pinch of clove can encapsulate the season's essence in every spoonful.

Storage and Reheating Tips

When made in batches, Apple porridge can easily serve you for more than one meal. For storing leftover porridge, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. This method keeps your apple porridge fresh for up to 3 days. 

When ready to dive back into its creamy goodness, reheat on the stovetop on low-medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the porridge thickens too much, add a splash of milk or water to achieve the desired consistency. This ensures the flavour and texture of the apple porridge remain intact and delicious.

Pairing with Our Amazing Juices and Cider

Our range of amazing juices and cider goes beyond merely delightful beverages. They encapsulate the essence of a refreshing morning ritual. Envision starting your day with a bowl of apple porridge, accompanied by a glass of our rejuvenating juice or a hint of our organic apple cider vinegar in water. This duo isn't just about tantalizing your taste buds. 

Introducing apple cider vinegar into one's daily routine brings many health advantages, from promoting better digestion to maintaining a balanced blood sugar level. Thus, while the apple porridge provides a foundation of nutritious contentment, our juices and cider add an invigorating, healthful touch, ensuring every morning is a symphony of nourishment and zest.