I recently succumed to a stomach bug which was rather nasty and wiped me out completely as it did the rounds about Aberdour. After several days my system was lacking any nutrients whatsoever, and that is when I turned to the Scottish favourite…porridge!!
Oats are full of energy-giving nutrients such as calcium, magnesium, iron and vitamins. They also encourage a healthy nervous system and help with debility, depression and nervous exhaustion. When you have been ill, oats are easily digested, but will also soothe the digestive system, so eat not only after nasty bugs, but also if you have IBS and similar digestive issues. Oats will also help keep blood cholesterol levels low, helping fight against cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.
So why don’t people eat this through the winter? Well, usually because they don’t like it. I have to say that I like the way I make it, but have never found a hotel where porridge was edible. The only time I have eaten it when out and loved it was on the Orient Express out of Edinburgh last year, when topped with cream and raspberry compote, it was simply to die for!! So keep persevering…I make it with ½ cup Scotts Porridge oats, ½ cup goats milk and a cup water, heated in a pan with a pinch salt. Bring to the boil and simmer for 5-6 minutes whilst drying my hair, then pour into the bowl and top with Maple syrup…yum!
If unwell I add a sprinkle of cinnamon on the top, the added spice fights winter lethargy, helps poor circulation as well as killing any nasty bugs lurking in your digestive tract, whilst calming any upset remaining, and helping fight coughs and colds on the way. What a combination…so granny did know best, and you will be fitter if you indulge in this simple food throughout the winter like I do!! For a special treat, try single cream on top…yum!!
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