Mingau de Aveia - Traditional Oatmeal Porridge
BrazilianBreakfast

Recipe Story

origins & traditions

Mingau de Aveia is a traditional Brazilian breakfast porridge that has been warming hearts and bodies for generations. This creamy oatmeal dish combines rolled oats with milk and aromatic cinnamon to create a smooth, velvety consistency that is both nutritious and satisfying. Unlike its plain counterparts, Brazilian mingau is enriched with milk rather than water, giving it a rich and luxurious texture. The addition of honey provides natural sweetness while cinnamon adds warmth and depth. Often enjoyed by children and adults alike, this comfort food is perfect for cool mornings or whenever you need a wholesome, filling meal. The porridge can be adjusted to your preferred consistency by varying the cooking time and liquid ratio. Many Brazilian families have their own variations, sometimes adding vanilla, condensed milk, or topping with fresh fruits and nuts.

Instructions

step by step
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  1. In a medium saucepan, combine the milk and salt over medium heat. Stir occasionally and bring to a gentle simmer, being careful not to let it boil over.

  2. Once the milk is warm, gradually add the rolled oats while stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Reduce heat to low.

  3. Add the ground cinnamon and continue stirring the mixture. Cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The oats should absorb the milk and become creamy.

  4. As the porridge thickens to your desired consistency, remove from heat. If it becomes too thick, add a splash more milk and stir well.

  5. Stir in the honey and butter, mixing until fully incorporated and the butter has melted completely.

  6. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed by adding more honey. Let the mingau rest for 2 minutes to thicken slightly.

  7. Serve hot in bowls, optionally garnishing with a sprinkle of cinnamon, fresh banana slices, or a drizzle of honey on top.

Mingau de Aveia - Traditional Oatmeal Porridge

4.6 (39)

A creamy and comforting Brazilian oatmeal porridge made with milk, cinnamon, and honey. This warm breakfast dish is beloved throughout Brazil for its smooth texture and naturally sweet flavor that provides energy to start the day.

easy
20 min
4 servings

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

  • 1 cups oats, rolled oats
  • 4 cups milk, whole milk preferred
  • 1 tablespoons butter, unsalted

Spices

  • 1 teaspoons cinnamon, ground

Sweeteners

  • 3 tablespoons honey

Seasonings

  • 1/4 teaspoons salt

Garnish

  • 2 pieces banana, sliced (optional)

Flavorings

  • 1/2 teaspoons vanilla-extract (optional)

Chef Tips

expert advice
For a richer mingau, substitute half the milk with condensed milk and reduce the honey accordingly.
If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more milk gradually during cooking.
Traditional Brazilian cooks often make this in larger batches for the family.
You can make it dairy-free by using coconut milk or almond milk instead.
For added nutrition, stir in a tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds during cooking.
Some regions of Brazil add a pinch of nutmeg along with the cinnamon for extra warmth.
If preparing for young children, ensure the porridge is not too hot before serving.
Leftover mingau thickens considerably when cooled but can be easily revived with a splash of warm milk.