Name: 30-Minute Sweet and Creamy Brown Rice Breakfast Porridge
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: International
Ingredients: Cashew cream (or coconut milk or creamy plant milk of choice); 6 medjool dates, pits removed; 1 cup uncooked brown basmati rice (or brown rice of choice); 4 cups water

Why You’ll Love 30-Minute Sweet and Creamy Brown Rice Breakfast Porridge Recipe

This recipe is simple, comforting, and surprisingly filling for such a short ingredient list. The brown rice gives the porridge a pleasantly chewy texture, while the blended dates and cashew cream create a naturally sweet and silky finish. It is dairy-free, easy to customize, and perfect for breakfast meal prep or a warm weekend breakfast. You can also dress it up with your favorite toppings, making it easy to enjoy again and again without getting bored.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 batch cashew cream, or substitute with coconut milk or any creamy plant milk of choice
6 Medjool dates, pits removed
1 cup uncooked brown basmati rice, or brown rice of choice
4 cups water

Directions

Make the cashew cream and set it aside.
Soak the pitted dates in boiling water and set them aside while you prepare the rice.
Add the uncooked brown rice to a blender and pulse it 10 to 15 times until it breaks into small chunks. Transfer the rice to a medium saucepan with the water and bring it to a simmer. Lower the heat and cook at a gentle simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender with a slightly chewy texture.
Strain the soaked dates and place them in the blender along with the cashew cream or plant milk. Blend until completely smooth. Pour the sweet cream mixture into the saucepan with the cooked rice and stir well to combine. Let it simmer for a few more minutes until it reaches your desired porridge consistency. Spoon into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings, such as strawberry chia jam or cashew butter.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 3 servings and takes 30 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

There are plenty of ways to make this porridge your own. Swap the cashew cream for full-fat coconut milk for a richer, more tropical flavor. Use oat milk, almond milk, or soy milk for a lighter version. You can stir in cinnamon, cardamom, or vanilla for extra warmth and depth. For added texture, top each bowl with chopped nuts, seeds, fresh berries, sliced banana, or a spoonful of nut butter. You can also add a little maple syrup if you prefer an even sweeter porridge.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover porridge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. As it sits, it will thicken considerably. To reheat, place it in a saucepan over low heat and stir in a splash of water or plant milk until it loosens to your preferred consistency. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring between each one and adding extra liquid as needed.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of brown rice?

Yes, you can use another variety of brown rice, but the cooking time and final texture may vary slightly depending on the type you choose.

Do I have to pulse the rice first?

Pulsing the rice helps create a porridge-like texture more quickly. If you skip this step, the dish may feel more like creamy rice than traditional porridge.

Can I make this without cashew cream?

Yes, you can use coconut milk or any creamy plant milk as a substitute. The result will still be delicious, though the richness may vary.

Are the dates enough to sweeten the porridge?

For many people, yes. Medjool dates add a natural caramel-like sweetness. If you like your breakfast sweeter, you can add maple syrup or another sweetener to taste.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, this porridge reheats well, so it is a good option for meal prep. Just add extra liquid when reheating since it thickens in the fridge.

What toppings go well with this porridge?

Fresh fruit, berry jam, chia jam, nut butter, chopped nuts, seeds, toasted coconut, and a sprinkle of cinnamon all work very well.

Can I freeze it?

Yes, you can freeze it in individual portions. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with extra liquid to restore the creamy texture.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as written, the recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure any plant milk or toppings you use are also certified gluten-free if needed.

Can I use store-bought date paste instead of soaked dates?

Yes, date paste can work as a shortcut. Add it gradually and blend with the cashew cream until smooth.

How do I make the porridge thicker or thinner?

For thicker porridge, simmer it a little longer. For a thinner consistency, stir in more water or plant milk until it reaches the texture you like.

Conclusion

This 30-minute sweet and creamy brown rice breakfast porridge is an easy, cozy breakfast that delivers both comfort and nourishment. With its naturally sweet flavor, creamy texture, and flexible ingredient options, it is a wonderful recipe to keep on repeat. Whether you serve it plain or load it up with toppings, it is a satisfying way to start the morning.