National Porridge Day

A cozy bowl of piping hot porridge, adorned with a dollop of creamy butter and a sprinkle of brown sugar, set on a rustic wooden table.. — National porridge day illustration

Welcome to the wonderful world of National Porridge Day! On this special day, we celebrate the humble bowl of porridge and all its warm, comforting glory. Whether you like it plain or fancy it up with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a drizzle of honey, porridge is a breakfast staple that deserves its own day of recognition. So grab your spoon and get ready to delve into the fascinating history of this delicious dish!

When is Porridge Day?

It's national porridge day on the 10th October.

The Origins of National Porridge Day

While the exact origin of National Porridge Day is somewhat of a mystery, the tradition of enjoying porridge dates back centuries. Porridge has been a staple food in many cultures, providing nourishment and sustenance to people for generations. It's believed that the idea of dedicating a day to porridge was born out of a desire to celebrate this beloved breakfast dish and bring attention to its health benefits and versatility.

The Internet's Love for Porridge

The internet has been abuzz with porridge-related content, from mouthwatering recipes to heartwarming stories of porridge's comforting qualities. Social media platforms have seen porridge enthusiasts sharing their favorite toppings, debating the perfect consistency, and even organizing porridge-themed events. The hashtag #NationalPorridgeDay has gained popularity, allowing porridge lovers around the world to connect and share their passion for this breakfast delight.

Porridge in Pop Culture

Porridge has also made its way into popular culture, with references in books, movies, and even songs. Who can forget the iconic line from Goldilocks and the Three Bears: 'Who's been eating my porridge?' This simple dish has captured the imaginations of writers, filmmakers, and artists, becoming synonymous with warmth, comfort, and nostalgia.

History behind the term 'Porridge'

10,000 BCE

Ancient Origins

Porridge has ancient origins and can be traced back to around 10,000 BCE. Some of the earliest evidence of porridge-like dishes comes from pottery fragments found in ancient China. These fragments contained residues that suggest the use of millet and other grains to make a gruel-like substance, which can be considered an early form of porridge.

4th Century BCE

Greek Influence

During the 4th century BCE, the Greek civilization played a significant role in the development and spread of porridge. The Greeks made a dish called 'poleenta,' which was a type of porridge made from hulled and crushed grains. This dish was often flavored with honey and served as a staple food for the ancient Greeks and other Mediterranean cultures.

10th Century

Middle Ages and Beyond

Porridge became increasingly popular during the Middle Ages and beyond, especially in Europe. It was a staple food for peasants and the lower classes due to its affordability and filling nature. Different regions and cultures had their own variations of porridge, such as oatmeal porridge in Scotland or rice porridge in East Asia.

17th Century

Colonial Connections

With the colonization of the Americas, the term 'porridge' expanded its reach to new communities and cuisines. European settlers brought their porridge-making traditions to the New World, where they incorporated native ingredients such as cornmeal. The resulting dish, known as 'cornmeal porridge' or 'hasty pudding,' became a staple in early American diets.

19th Century

Industrial Revolution Impact

The Industrial Revolution in the 19th century brought significant changes to porridge consumption. With advancements in milling technology, oatmeal became more widely available and affordable. This led to an increase in the consumption of oat porridge or 'oatmeal' as a popular breakfast dish in Britain and other parts of Europe.

20th Century

Modern Variations

In the 20th century, porridge continued to evolve with the introduction of instant varieties, making it more convenient to prepare. Brands like Quaker Oats popularized packaged oatmeal, allowing people to enjoy a quick and easy breakfast. Additionally, different grains like quinoa and amaranth gained popularity as alternative options for porridge, catering to diverse dietary preferences.

Did you know?

Did you know that in Scotland, there is a traditional dish called haggis, neeps, and tatties? It's often served alongside porridge during festive celebrations and consists of haggis (a savory pudding), neeps (mashed turnips), and tatties (mashed potatoes). It's a true Scottish feast that showcases the versatility of porridge!