Scottish Porridge

Enjoyed for centuries in Scotland and made from oats–one of the few grains that grow well in the country–Scottish porridge is a healthy and tasty dish containing high amounts of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Traditionally, the oatmeal is cooked in water with a pinch of salt, stirred clockwise (to fend off the Devil) with a wooden rod called a spurtle that prevents the porridge from congealing. It is then served in wooden bowls while still hot. Sometimes, a bit of milk, dried fruits, and brown sugar are added as sweeteners. The dish should be eaten while standing up; a tradition left over from busy farmers who were simultaneously working and eating their breakfast. In the past, it used to be poured into a porridge drawer to cool down, and once it did, it would be cut up into thick slices that were easy to carry. It helps in reducing cholesterol and keeps one satiated and full of energy for a long time, so there is probably no better way to start the day than by eating a bowl of traditional Scottish porridge.