Chai Apple & Sultana Breakfast Bliss

Step 1: Prepare the Spiced Fruit Mixture

To kick off your delicious breakfast, start by gathering all your ingredients: sultanas, apples, lemon juice, sugar, ground spices, whole spices, and freshly cracked black pepper. In a medium saucepan, combine the sultanas and roughly chopped apples, adding in the lemon juice and sugar to enhance the sweetness and brightness of the fruit. Sprinkle in your chosen ground spices, such as cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, which will infuse the mixture with warmth and depth. Toss in the whole spices—like crushed cardamom pods and cloves—for an aromatic experience that will permeate your kitchen.

Next, pour in 75ml of water and set the saucepan over medium heat. As it heats, bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble softly. This is the perfect time to enjoy the wonderful aroma filling the air! Let the mixture cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the fruit doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan. You’ll know it’s ready when the apples are tender and the liquid has reduced into a thick, syrupy sauce. Once finished, remove the saucepan from the heat and allow it to cool slightly. You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it easy to add a burst of flavor to your breakfasts throughout the week.

Step 2: Cook the Porridge

While the spiced fruit mixture is cooling, it’s time to focus on the porridge. In a separate saucepan, combine 200g of porridge oats, 400ml of milk, and 800ml of water, along with a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring often to ensure even cooking and to prevent any sticking. As the porridge cooks, keep an eye on the consistency—this will take around 8-10 minutes. If you prefer a thicker texture, let it simmer a bit longer, stirring continuously. If you enjoy a creamier, lighter porridge, simply add a splash of water or milk to achieve your desired consistency.

During this time, take a moment to appreciate the comforting aroma of the oats as they cook. Stirring frequently helps release the natural starches, creating a luscious, creamy texture that will make each bite delightful.

Step 3: Assemble and Serve

Once your porridge has reached the desired creamy consistency, it’s time for the best part: assembling your bowl! Spoon generous portions of the warm porridge into individual bowls. Take a moment to enjoy the warmth and aroma before adding the toppings.

Now, ladle the chai-spiced apple and sultana mixture over the porridge, allowing the sweet, spiced syrup to soak into the oats and cascade down the sides. For an extra touch of indulgence, drizzle some double cream over the top—this adds a luxurious richness that perfectly balances the spices and sweetness.

Garnish with a sprinkle of additional ground cinnamon or a few whole spices for a beautiful presentation.

Finally, sit down and enjoy your wholesome, comforting breakfast that’s not just delicious but also nourishing. This chai-spiced porridge will warm you from the inside out and set a positive tone for your day ahead!