Here is a recipe to start your day with an authentic taste of Jamaica. Green plantain porridge is a hearty Jamaican breakfast, that can also be enjoyed throughout the day. Green plantains, which are related to bananas, are typically “squashed” and fried (Hispanics call them Tostones) they also make a great porridge recipe

Ingredients

• 2 fingers green plantain
• 1/2 cup refined oats – optional
• 1 teaspoon of salt (or more to taste)
• 8 teaspoons skimmed milk powder or 1/2 cup evaporated milk
• 3 cinnamon leaves or 1 cinnamon stick
• 1/4 cup coconut milk – /optional
• sweetened condensed milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• 3 cups water – this includes 1 cup to blend the green plantain
• 1/2 teaspoon. freshly grated nutmeg )spices like mixed spices, almond flavoring, rose water, or ground cinnamon may also be used)

Preparation

1. Add 2 cups water to a medium saucepan. Boil over high heat for 2 minutes.
2. 2 While water is boiling, peel the plantain fingers and cut each finger into small pieces.
3. 3 Place cut plantain in a blender with 1 cup of water and blend until smooth
4. 4 Add oats to the blended mixture and blend another 2 minutes.
5. 5 Pour the mixture into a bowl and smooth out any remaining lumps with a spatula
6. 6 Pour smoothed mixture into saucepan, cover, and reduce heat to medium-high.
7. 7 Cook until mixture begins to thicken, about 2 minutes. Lower heat if necessary and cooking, checking frequently, for about 15 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent burning
8. 8 Add coconut milk and stir 10 more minutes.
9. 9 Still on low heat, add skimmed milk and stir, then add salt and stir again
10. 10 Remove the Porridge from heat and serve hot.