Thank you everyone for your comments on my SAD post. As suspected there really are an awful lot of folk out there who suffer during the winter months to a greater or lesser extent, but I reckon even more so this winter as we didn't have the sunniest of summers (ahem, wellies, anyone?) followed by a dull winter so far. I'm quite looking forward to the prospect of snow this weekend, though!
I have a 'toolbox' of things I use to keep me going through the winter months, to help stop the sleepiness, irritability and misery kicking in. 90% of the time I choose foods which I know will give me sustainable energy and the nutrition I need (the other 10% are treat foods, which do me good in other ways). The absolute star of my show is.... porridge!
I really can't think of anything bad to say about this fabulous stuff (thanks Scotland!) It's the fastest fast food, it's hot on a chilly morning, releases energy slowly, and is a really excellent comfort food. I used to have porridge when I stayed with my grandparents as a child, so I associate it with happy memories too.
Some of my favourite toppings include:
- Almonds
- Raisins and sultanas
- Berries
- Cinnamon
- Apple
- Pine nuts
- Dried apricots or mango
- Coconut
- Honey
I add a splash of soya milk or yoghurt to my porridge, and find I don't get really hungry until lunchtime, which is some kind of miracle for me. I make my porridge with half milk, half water, but on really cold days I've even started taking oats to work in a tub, then adding water and making myself a portion for lunch in the microwave. After some initial odd looks from colleagues I reckon a bit of a trend is starting now!
Do you like porridge? If you have any favourite topping ideas please share them below!
Happy Friday,
PS: I used to have a guinea pig called Porridge. Bit of trivia for you.
I swear by porridge on the cold, dark winter mornings, plus as I'm trying to eat more vegan meals this year, it's great when made with water and a splash of soya milk :-)
ReplyDeleteAnd 'Porridge' is a GREAT name for a guinea pig! x
Ah yes, Porridge the gp left us too soon, but he was a lovely little chap! x
DeleteAs a Scot, I'm ashamed to admit that I haven't made porridge for ages although I always keep some oats in the house, but your post has just put me in the mood for some! Thanks!
ReplyDeleteLiz @ Shortbread & Ginger
I come and go with food infatuations, but this one has been around for a fair while now! x
DeleteLove porridge - bananas and a squidge of golden syrup is a fave in our house ��
ReplyDeleteXx
Ooh yes, forgot about bananas... x
DeleteCinnamon and a tiny sprinkle of sugar is my favourite - and definitely prevents mid-morning snack attacks. Oats are good for your cholesterol levels too!
ReplyDeleteI didn't know that - lesson of the day, thanks Helen! x
DeleteLove porridge - my choice too. I put whatever dried fruit that is in the house on the top (chopped dates and apricots are my real favs) brown sugar is reserved for days when I know I am doing long run or if I need an extra kick. The little people like syrup whilst he in doors likes maple syrup!
ReplyDeletePorridge is perfect before exercise, isn't it? Stops me getting the wobbles and reaching for the biccies on my return. x
DeleteOh yes, I love porridge for breakfast in the winter. Half water, half milk like you, but I like to cover mine in golden syrup and sultanas. Yum.
ReplyDeleteYour previous post on SAD was very interesting - so many of us seem to be affected by it to varying degrees.
Gillian x
I have to have sultanas, it doesn't seem right without! SAD is indeed very prevalent. All the more reason to share what works for us in the hopes that we can help one another through. x
DeleteI like golden syrup and on high days or holidays a tiny splash of cream as well!
ReplyDeleteOoh Alison! Love a bit of cream but hadn't considered it on porridge! x
DeleteI love porridge too, I make mine with rice milk, love it with honey! :) x
ReplyDeleteHoney was always the accompaniment of choice when I was small. My grandad used to plonk a spoonful in my bowl with the words, "'ere, mix that in." If we were naughty he'd threaten to put us in the porridge pot! x
DeleteI'm at weight watchers at moment so following filling and healthy plan ... Porridge and skimmed milk are free ... yay! I stew a large apple, then add oats and milk and cook. Pour int bowl and add Demerara sugar for crunch and a and full f blueberries ... Apple crumble porridge xxx
ReplyDeleteWoo, as much porridge as you like! Apple crumble porridge sounds amazing, and it's going on my list ;) x
DeleteI like to slice half a banana into the oats while they're cooking so that the slices go all mushy and sweet then add the rest of the banana afterwards, add either milk or almond milk and the day is ready to be faced! The apple crumble porridge sounds lovely. That may have to be tried out. Hazah for porride - I'll never understand how people can say they dislike it!
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I thought i would comment on the porridge post as i really wish i liked the stuff, so healthy etc. Unfortunately I can't stand it....toast for me!
Emma xxx