Vegan Hominy Porridge

Porridge has been a breakfast staple since ancient times. Different regions use different types of porridge. Where the most commonly used porridge is that of Oats, here are several ingredients that are not as popular but are full of nutrition. One such porridge is the hominy porridge, we also have Cornmeal Porridge and Banana Porridge.

Here is everything you need to know about vegan hominy porridge.

What is Vegan Hominy Porridge?

Hominy porridge is a breakfast staple that is very popular in Jamaica, Mexico, Caribbean countries, and Latin America. It is made from hominy kernels. These kernels can either be whole or cracked.

Traditionally hominy porridge is made with condensed milk and cow’s milk. However, I have made my version with ingredients like coconut milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg. It is quite easy to make. Moreover, different cultures use different ingredients to add flavors to this porridge. But it is best served sweet. You can even substitute the cinnamon with a spice blend of coriander and cardamom.

What is Hominy?

Hominy is derived from maize or corn. The corn kernels are treated through a process called nixtamalization. In this process, the corn kernels are soaked in lye or lime. As a result, the corn loses its out layer and also swells up almost double its size. This process also changes the nutritional value of the corn kernels. In other words, it makes hominy other benefits for health. Hominy varies in color from dark yellow to white, depending on the color of the corn kernels.  

Where can you find hominy?

Although hominy is not a local product, you can find it in either dried form or sometimes in canned form as well. However, to get the product, you will have to look it up at ethnic stores like Asian, Latin, and Caribbean superstores. Furthermore, you can also look it up on amazon.

Because these are dehydrated, you can cook them just like beans and other grains. Furthermore, hominy also comes in the grounded form. This form is particularly useful for making tortillas etc.

Benefits of hominy

We already know that hominy is made from corn. Because corns have a huge list of health benefits, hominy offers some amazing health benefits as well. Here are a few reasons why you should incorporate hominy porridge in your daily diet:

• It is low in fat and calories. So, if you are someone who wants to lose weight or follow a low-fat diet, it is definitely for you.
• It is rich in vitamin B. Vitamin B is essential in the formation of new red blood cells. Furthermore, it also provides instant energy to the body.
• Hominy has a high fiber content; as a result, it keeps your digestive tract on track. It also improves your bowel movement.
• Because hominy is gluten-free, it is perfect for those who are allergic to gluten.
• It is low in sugar.

Is it important to soak and rinse hominy?

Yes, it is crucial to soak and rinse hominy. Because it usually comes in dried form, you have to soak it at least overnight so that it cooks faster. Furthermore, rinsing several times help you to get rid of dust and dirt. Also, the cooking time of hominy depends upon its soaking time as well. The more time you soak it, the less time it will take in cooking.

How to check whether hominy is cooked or not?

You don’t want to eat uncooked hominy, do you? So, it is essential it is cooked perfectly. For this, you have to do a simple test. Boil pre-soaked hominy for about 40 to 45 minutes. Take out cooked hominy using a spoon and wait for it to cool down. Once it is cool enough, take it between your finger and squash it. If it squashes easily, it means the hominy is ready.

Vegan Hominy Porridge Ingredients 

The thing about hominy porridge is that it uses a few essential ingredients. Above all, these ingredients are readily available in every kitchen pantry. So, if you want to include it in your daily routine, you just have to look for hominy. Here is everything you will need for this Jamaican porridge:

• Dried hominy: you can’t make vegan hominy porridge without hominy kernels, can you? It is the main ingredient of the dish. You can find it in dried form, and you will have to soak it for at least 6-8 hours before using it. Dried hominy comes into forms. You can either get whole or broken hominy. Broken hominy comparatively takes less time to cook.
• Coconut milk: Since it is a non-dairy dish, it is made with coconut milk. However, you can also use any other plant-based milk like almond milk or soy milk.
• Coconut Condensed Milk (Homemade): To add a bit of sweetness to this porridge, it is ideal you use sweetened coconut condensed milk. You can also purchase local health food stores, supermarkets, or on Amazon.
• Cornmeal: Cornmeal is a thickening agent that gives the porridge a thick consistency.
• Nutmeg: Nutmeg is for aroma and flavor.
• Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds freshness and flavor to the porridge.

How to make vegan hominy porridge?

You can make hominy porridge in a breeze. It is quite easy and straightforward. Here are a few steps you have to follow:

Step 1: You start by boiling hominy along with cinnamon leaves and salt. The process takes about 40 to 45 minutes. However, you have to stir occasionally so that it doesn’t stick at the bottom of the pan.

Step 2: wait till water evaporates, and only ¼ cup of water is left in the pan. Place it on medium heat and add coconut milk.

Step 3: once the coconut milk is combined, add cornmeal and mix until everything is well incorporated.

Step 4: Add condensed milk, salt, vanilla extracts, and cinnamon powder. Stir and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. Serve.

Can you cook hominy in an instant pot?

As a matter of fact, you can. Instant pot or electric pressure cooker can cook the hominy porridge faster because of its mechanism. So, if you are in a hurry or want a quick cook, you can cook it in an instant pot. However, you will still have to rinse and soak the hominy for at least 2 to 3 hours.

Tips and tricks from making Vegan Hominy Porridge

Although making hominy porridge is very easy. But you can make it taste even better by taking care of the following things:

• Although the porridge is a bit thicker, you can pour in more milk and adjust its consistency according to your liking if you want it the other way.
• Make sure you are using cracked hominy. It cooks alt faster than whole hominy.
• To ensure thick porridge, it is essential that you use any starch or flour. For this recipe, I have used cornmeal. But you can use something else as well.
• Before adding coconut milk, it is important that you have about ½ cup of water left in the pan.
• It is also crucial to soak hominy before cooking it. The more time you invest in soaking it, the lesser time it will take in cooking.
• To get maximum flavor and creamy consistency, use whole fat coconut milk.
• When boiling hominy, make sure you constantly stir it; otherwise, it will stick to the pan and become lumpy.
• When adding cornmeal to the hominy, stir vigorously so that it combines evenly; otherwise, it will become lumpy.

Other Vegan Breakfast Recipes

1. Plantain Porridge
2. Banana Oatmeal Pancakes
3. Buckwheat Porridge
4. Tofu Scramble
5. Vegan Sausage Gravy
6. Baked Plantains

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