Everyone knows that porridge has made a major comeback over the past few years, as it’s now common knowledge that oats are extremely nutritious, filling, and the perfect promoter of a healthy and balanced diet. It’s difficult to scroll through Instagram and not stumble across at least one picturesque combination of oats, fruit and almond butter, so you can understand why it’s easier just to jump on the porridge band wagon. The key to the perfect bowl is, of course, the porridge toppings, – and they go way beyond fresh fruit and peanut butter – so to help you get creative, here are 8 porridge toppings you would never think of trying!
Matcha is known for being high in antioxidants and full of fibre, helping to boost metabolism and enhance our mood – what’s not to love? Prepare yours oats normally with the addition of half a teaspoon of matcha powder, later mixing fresh banana, coconut and chia seeds for a deliciously green morning wake-up.
If you like carrot cake, you need to try this spin-off porridge equivalent version. All you need to add to your usual morning oat ritual is one grated medium carrot, some raisins, flax seeds, a dash of cinnamon and a sprinkle of nutmeg. It’s like Autumn in a bowl, with an almost pumpkin-spiced latte aroma to it.
Besides from making your food yellow, turmeric has loads of health benefits, and is particularly recognised for its anti-inflammatory properties. Cook your oats with half a tea spoon of turmeric along with other spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg, then add porridge toppings like fresh fruit like banana or blueberries and a spoonful of almond butter.
Hemp seeds are porridge toppings that will add a mild nutty flavour to your porridge and are a great source of protein. As well as adding flavour they are rich in healthy fats and go well with most popular toppings. Cook them along with your oats and milk so the seeds are fully absorbed in the mixture. Why not combine them with some fresh fruit and honey, or maple syrup!
Who said porridge had to be 100% healthy? Cut up some strawberries and melt grated chocolate through your oats – use dark chocolate or cacao nibs for a slightly healthier option and top off with shredded coconut for the perfect finish. If you’re not a dark chocolate fan, you could easily go for milk or white chocolate to create a sweet, dessert-like touch.
Sliced avocado is traditionally viewed as a toast topping, but it tastes so good, why shouldn’t we throw it in on top of our porridge too? This may sound peculiar, but the creaminess of the avocado will really compliment the oats – cook oats with the fruit of your choice (mango or peach work particularly well) then add the sliced avocado on top! Equally, you can keep it savoury without the fruit and even add a poached egg and a pinch of salt if you’re feeling really adventurous.
Yogurt is the perfect porridge topping for a real fresh and creamy finish. Greek yogurt in particular goes great with any fresh fruit and a sprinkle of almonds, finally topped with honey or syrup. To make it even sweeter, add a spoonful of berry compote or jam. You can also easily switch to non-dairy soy, coconut or almond-based yogurt for a vegan alternative!
Add some crunch to your porridge with whole pecans and almonds teamed with sliced pear, caramelised in maple syrup and topped off with an extra dash of syrup. Some dried fruit and spices will also give your bowl a warm winter essence – a dash of cinnamon will never go a miss!
There is a vast array of studies done on how diet exerts an impact on our wellbeing and overall health,…
If you don't listen to many Ted talks, you really should because they're great to lift your spirits and get…
You shouldn't be afraid of wearing a sequin top or dress on a night out. No, they are not 'too…
It might not be spring yet in London, with the rain and the slightly cold weather, but it wouldn't hurt…
Whether you’re male or female, the thought of having sex with someone new probably sounds like the most daunting thing…
Living with other people aka your flatmates, for the first time can be daunting, you know not everyone is going…
