Easy Semolina Porridge (Popular Lithuanian Breakfast Recipe)

Semolina porridge, or mannų košė, is a nostalgic and much-loved breakfast across Lithuania — a comforting bowl that brings back memories of childhood mornings and cozy kitchens. Creamy, smooth, and delicately sweet, this classic dish is simple to prepare yet deeply satisfying, making it a go-to breakfast for kids and adults alike. Traditionally made by simmering fine semolina in milk, this warming porridge is topped with a dusting of cinnamon and a sprinkle of sugar, offering a gentle start to the day. Whether you're looking for a quick weekday breakfast or a weekend comfort treat, Lithuanian-style semolina porridge is a delicious and versatile option.

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❤️ Why Everyone Loves This Semolina Porridge

✅ Family-Friendly: A timeless favorite for toddlers and grown-ups alike. ✅ Quick to Make: Ready in under 10 minutes – perfect for busy mornings. ✅ Energizing & Filling: Packed with complex carbs and protein to keep you full longer. ✅ Customizable: Neutral in flavor and perfect for endless toppings — sweet or savory. ✅ Comforting & Cozy: Its creamy texture and mild taste make it especially satisfying during colder months.

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🛒 Ingredients You'll Need

Full measurements and instructions are in the recipe card below.

• Milk (240 ml / 1 cup): Full-fat dairy milk gives a rich texture, but plant-based options like coconut, cashew, or almond milk work well too.
• Semolina (20 g / 1½ tbsp): Use fine semolina, not semolina flour, for best results.
• Salt: Just a pinch, to enhance flavor.
• Sugar: White sugar is ideal to keep the porridge light in color.
• Unsalted Butter (1 tsp): Or substitute with ghee for a richer taste.
• Toppings: Classic combo – caster sugar + ground cinnamon. Scroll down for more topping ideas!

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🍓 Tasty Topping Ideas

While the traditional topping is cinnamon and sugar, you can make it your own with these tasty alternatives: ✨ Brown Sugar – Melts beautifully over warm porridge. 🍓 Fruit Jam or Compote – Add a swirl of berry jam or stewed apples. 🍌 Fresh Fruits or Berries – Bananas, strawberries, blueberries, or a mix! 🍋 Zest – A little lemon or orange zest adds brightness. 🍁 Maple Syrup – Not traditional, but incredibly delicious. 🧂 Savory Twist – Omit sugar, stir in butter, and sprinkle with a little “Vegeta” seasoning for a savory take (yes, it’s a thing in Lithuania!).

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👩‍🍳 How to Make Semolina Porridge – Step-by-Step

1. Heat the Milk
   Pour the milk into a small saucepan and gently bring to a simmer over medium heat.
2. Season
   Once simmering, reduce heat to low. Stir in a pinch of salt and sugar.
3. Add Semolina Gradually
   While continuously stirring, slowly add the semolina in a steady stream. This helps avoid clumps.
4. Simmer and Stir
   Keep stirring for 5–7 minutes, until the porridge thickens to a pourable consistency. Don’t overcook — it will continue to thicken after being removed from the heat.
5. Finish with Butter
   Remove from heat, stir in butter, and pour into serving bowls.
6. Top and Enjoy
   Dust with cinnamon and sugar (or your favorite toppings) and serve warm.

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🧑‍🍳 Expert Tips for the Creamiest Semolina Porridge

• Liquid Ratio: A good rule is 1 cup of milk to 1½ tbsp semolina. For a lighter version, use half water, half milk.
• Add Semolina Slowly: Pour it in a thin stream while stirring – no clumps, just creamy goodness!
• Stir Constantly: Prevents burning and ensures even texture.
• Butter = Creamy Finish: A small knob of butter (or splash of cream) adds richness.
• Don't Overcook: Remove from heat just before it reaches your ideal thickness — it thickens as it cools.

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🤔 Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between semolina porridge and oat porridge?
Semolina porridge is smoother and creamier, with a finer texture compared to the slightly chewy consistency of oats. It also tends to be higher in protein and lower in calories. Is semolina the same as Cream of Wheat?
Yes! Cream of Wheat is essentially a branded version of fine semolina — both are made from durum wheat and cook in a similar way. Can I use semolina flour instead?
No — semolina flour is too fine and doesn’t produce the creamy texture needed for porridge. Stick to fine semolina grains for best results.

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📋 Semolina Porridge Recipe Card

Ingredients:

• 240 ml (1 cup) milk
• 20 g (1½ tbsp) fine semolina
• Pinch of salt
• Pinch of sugar
• 1 tsp butter
• Toppings: 1 tsp caster sugar + ¼ tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Bring milk to a gentle simmer in a small saucepan.
2. Reduce heat to low and stir in salt and sugar.
3. Gradually add semolina, stirring continuously.
4. Cook for 5–7 minutes, until thickened but pourable.
5. Remove from heat, stir in butter, and pour into a bowl.
6. Top with cinnamon and sugar — and enjoy warm! 😋

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🧡 Final Thoughts

Whether you're rediscovering childhood favorites or trying Lithuanian cuisine for the first time, semolina porridge is a deliciously simple way to start the day. It’s warm, nourishing, and endlessly customizable — the perfect breakfast hug in a bowl 🤗