Ghanaian
Tom Brown Porridge
A warm Ghanaian breakfast porridge made from roasted tom brown flour, stirred until smooth and nutty. It is finished with sugar and evaporated milk the way many homes serve it in the morning.
Ingredients
- Tom brown flour, roasted maize-groundnut-soybean blend3/4 cup
- Cool water1 cup
- Water2 cups
- Salt1/8 tsp
- Sugar2 tbsp
- Evaporated milk1/4 cup
Method
- Put the tom brown flour in a bowl and mix it with the cool water until it forms a smooth, lump-free slurry.
- Pour the 2 cups water into a saucepan, add the salt, and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to medium and slowly pour in the tom brown slurry while stirring continuously with a wooden spoon.
- Keep stirring until the porridge thickens and begins to bubble gently.
- Simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring often and scraping the bottom of the pot so it does not catch.
- Add a little hot water if the porridge becomes thicker than you like.
- Stir in the sugar until dissolved.
- Ladle into bowls and finish each serving with evaporated milk.
Common questions
Can I substitute the tom brown flour with another cereal blend?
Yes, if needed, use a similar roasted grain blend made from maize, soybeans, and groundnuts. Plain cornmeal alone will not give the same nutty flavor or body. If using a different blend, start with the same ratio and adjust thickness with hot water.
How long should I cook the porridge after adding the slurry?
Cook it for about 8 to 10 minutes after pouring in the slurry, stirring often. It should thicken and bubble gently. If it still tastes raw or chalky, cook a few minutes longer while keeping the heat moderate.
What are the most common mistakes when making tom brown porridge?
The biggest mistakes are adding the slurry too fast, not stirring enough, and cooking over high heat. These cause lumps, scorching, or a gummy texture. Always make a smooth slurry first and scrape the bottom of the pot as it thickens.
How do I store leftover tom brown porridge?
Cool it quickly, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It will thicken as it sits, so loosen it with a little water or milk when reheating on the stove or in the microwave.
What is the best way to serve tom brown porridge?
Serve it hot in bowls with evaporated milk poured over the top. You can also add sugar to taste, or serve with less sugar if you prefer. If it thickens before serving, stir in a little hot water until it reaches the texture you want.