Old Porridge (Kanji) Recipe: South Indian Village Breakfast

Old Porridge, or Kanji as it's affectionately known in South India, is a humble yet deeply satisfying breakfast staple, particularly prevalent in rural villages. This simple rice porridge, often cooked in large quantities, boasts a unique texture and subtle flavour that's both comforting and surprisingly versatile. Unlike its creamy Western counterparts, Kanji offers a slightly watery consistency, allowing the rice grains to retain their individual character while absorbing the essence of its accompanying spices. Its preparation, passed down through generations, involves minimal ingredients and a straightforward process, making it a perfect option for busy mornings. It's a testament to the resourcefulness of traditional South Indian cooking, transforming basic ingredients into a nourishing and delicious meal.

Kanji’s versatility shines through in its adaptability; it can be enjoyed plain, spiced with ginger and pepper, or enriched with a dollop of coconut milk and a sprinkle of curry leaves. To discover the simple yet rewarding steps involved in creating this authentic South Indian breakfast, let's delve into the detailed recipe below.

Tools Needed

• Pot
• Stove

Ingredients

• name: Cooked Rice
• amount: Leftover from a previous meal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1. Prepare the Rice

• Drain the water from leftover cooked rice.
• Boil water in a pot.
• Add the drained rice to the boiling water.
• Boil the rice for a short time.

• Drain the water from the rice again, leaving it slightly moist.
• Let the rice cool completely.

Step 2. Rest and Ferment

• Add a small amount of water to the cooled rice.
• Cover and let it sit overnight or for at least several hours.

Step 3. Enjoy!

• In the morning, the porridge (kanji) is ready.

Read more: Vegan Carrot Halwa: Easy Indian Dessert Recipe

Tips

• Add salt to taste only in the morning, before eating. Avoid adding salt the night before as it can make the porridge sour.
• For extra flavor, add onions, chilies, and coriander leaves.
• Old porridge is believed to be nutritious and beneficial, especially for those who work physically demanding jobs.

Nutrition

• N/A

FAQs

1. Can I use other types of rice for Kanji?

While traditional Kanji uses short-grain rice, you can experiment with other varieties. However, the texture might vary slightly. Short-grain rice is best for its soft, mushy texture.

2. How can I make Kanji thicker or thinner?

To thicken, use less water. For a thinner Kanji, add more water during cooking. You can also adjust the amount of rice accordingly.

So there you have it – a simple yet deeply satisfying recipe for Old Porridge (Kanji), a true taste of South Indian village life. This versatile breakfast is perfect for a quick and healthy start to your day, and easily adaptable to your preferences. Enjoy the comforting warmth and traditional flavours of this age-old recipe!