Winter Porridge with Smoked Meat and Poached Egg

Warm up your winter days with this delightful and hearty winter porridge. Perfect for breakfast or a comforting dinner, this dish combines the rich flavors of smoked meat with nourishing 5-grain flakes, all brought together in a savory chicken broth. The star of the recipe is a perfectly poached egg, adding richness to every bite. The subtle hint of ginger and the umami of soy sauce elevate the dish, while fresh dill and spring onions offer a refreshing contrast. This porridge is not just a bowl of comfort, but also a meal filled with diverse textures and flavors. It’s a versatile recipe, adaptable to various tastes and preferences. Additionally, it can be prepared in about 30 minutes, making it an ideal option for a quick yet satisfying meal. Treat yourself and your loved ones to this unique and cozy dish, and savor the essence of winter warmth in every spoonful. Serve it with your favorite side dishes or enjoy it on its own for a complete meal.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

500 ml chicken broth
150 g 5-grain flakes
175 g smoked meat
2 eggs
1 onion

Spices and Sauces

1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp grated ginger
Oil for frying
Pepper to taste

Garnishes

Fresh dill, chopped
Spring onions, chopped

Preparation Time

Total Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare Ingredients: Start by dicing the onion and smoked meat into small cubes. This ensures even cooking and better integration of flavors.
Sauté Onion and Meat: Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and meat, sautéing until the onions become translucent and the meat is slightly crispy and browned. This step is crucial for flavor development.
Heat Broth: In a separate pot, bring the chicken broth to a gentle boil. The broth acts as the base of the porridge, providing a savory backdrop.
Cook Grains: Add the 5-grain flakes to the boiling broth along with soy sauce and grated ginger. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the grains are fully immersed.
Simmer the Porridge: Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the grains are tender and have absorbed the flavors. This typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes.
Incorporate Sautéed Meat and Onion: Once the grains are cooked, stir in the sautéed meat and onion. This enriches the porridge with a deeper flavor and hearty texture.
Prepare Poached Eggs: In a small pot, bring 500 ml of water to a simmer. Add a splash of vinegar to help coagulate the eggs.
Create a Vortex: Use a spoon or whisk to stir the water in a circular motion, creating a gentle vortex. This helps the egg hold its shape.
Poach the Eggs: Crack each egg into a small bowl, then gently slide it into the center of the vortex. Poach for about 3 minutes until the whites are set, leaving the yolk soft and runny.
Carefully Remove Eggs: Use a slotted spoon to remove the poached eggs from the water, letting any excess water drain off.
Final Presentation: Serve the porridge in bowls, topping each with a poached egg. Sprinkle with freshly chopped dill and spring onions for added freshness.
Season and Serve: Add a dash of pepper for extra flavor, and serve immediately while hot. Enjoy the comforting and satisfying blend of tastes and textures.

Tips

Substitute grains: If 5-grain flakes are not available, use rolled oats or barley as alternatives.
Smoked meat options: Use turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or experiment with tempeh for a vegetarian option.
Adjust seasoning: Feel free to add more soy sauce or ginger according to your taste preference.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 400 kcal per serving
Protein: 25 g
Fats: 15 g
Carbs: 45 g

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Replace smoked meat with mushrooms for an umami-rich alternative.
Gluten-Free Option: Ensure the grains are certified gluten-free and replace soy sauce with tamari.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes: Pair with a light green salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Beverages: Complement with a warm cup of herbal tea or a glass of crisp white wine.

Best Places

Eat Your Heart Out - Known for its cozy ambiance and hearty meals. Location: 75 Marble St, London, UK.
Cozy Corner - A favorite spot for warm meals in the city. Location: 123 Elm St, New York, USA.
Bistro à Table - Serves delightful international recipes. Location: 54 Rue François 1er, Paris, France.
Haven Café - Perfect for comfort food lovers. Location: 22 Market Rd, Sydney, Australia.
Café Aroma - Famous for its inviting atmosphere. Location: 67 Park Ln, Wellington, New Zealand.
Rustic Table - Combines rustic charm with modern dining. Location: 89 Queen St, Toronto, Canada.
Delish Bites - A go-to for tasty and nutritious meals. Location: 45 King St, Dublin, Ireland.
Morning Glory Café - Ideal for breakfast and brunch. Location: 78 Main St, Cape Town, South Africa.
The Porridge Pot - Specializes in innovative porridge dishes. Location: 32 River Rd, Auckland, New Zealand.
Eden Eats - Offers a delightful dining experience. Location: 10 Bayview Ave, Vancouver, Canada.