As the seasons shift and cooler weather sets in, there’s nothing quite like waking up to a warm, comforting bowl of porridge. This slow cooker breakfast is the ultimate cozy morning meal, filling your kitchen with aromatic spices while you sleep and providing the nourishing warmth your body craves during chilly mornings.
Breakfast porridge is versatile and delicious, making it the perfect way to start your day. This version uses millet, but you can just as easily try it with rice or whole oats—or even a combination of all three! Feel free to switch up the fruit and spices, or add in some of your favorite protein powder or collagen for an extra nutritional boost.
Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 hours
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
- 1 cup dry millet (you can also use oats or rice)
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp cardamom
- 1 cup full fat canned coconut milk
- 2 cups dairy free milk
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 cup coconut flakes (optional)
- 1/3 cup chopped dried fruit (optional)
- 1 apple or peach, cubed (optional)
- 1 Tbsp honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Toast the Millet (if using)
If you’re using millet, lightly toast it on the stovetop over medium-high heat, stirring constantly, until you hear the first grain pop (about 4 minutes) or until the millet becomes aromatic. Then rinse under cool water while scrubbing lightly with your hands. Note: If you are using oats or rice, these steps are unnecessary.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Add all ingredients into your slow cooker and mix together thoroughly.
Step 3: Cook
Cook on low for 8 hours. Keep in mind that this will cook faster in a large-sized slow cooker than a smaller one, so check accordingly.
Step 4: Serve
Enjoy as is or customize with your favorite toppings such as nuts and seeds, nut butters, dairy-free milk, fresh fruit, and more!
Tips
- This recipe can also be made on the stovetop by simmering 4 cups of leftover cooked grains with the other ingredients (omitting the 2 cups of water).
- Make a batch on Sunday night and enjoy hassle-free breakfasts throughout the week!
- Experiment with different spice combinations like vanilla and nutmeg, or keep it simple with just cinnamon.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat with a splash of your favorite milk to restore creaminess. Enjoy!
Heidi Ochsner, MS, RD, is a Registered Dietitian and Nutrition Specialist at Temple Natural Health. She supports clients with chronic and complex health concerns through personalized nutrition, detoxification, and gut health strategies. With a passion for education and a deep belief in the mind-body connection, Heidi helps clients make lasting lifestyle changes that promote true healing.