Crema de farina, often simply referred to as farina in Puerto Rico, is more than just a breakfast; it’s a heartwarming bowl of comfort. For many Puerto Ricans, including myself, crema de farina evokes cherished childhood memories and the cozy feeling of home. While on its own, Farina Food, or cream of wheat as it’s known in other parts of the world, might seem bland, Puerto Rican culinary tradition transforms it into a flavorful and rich dish that’s anything but ordinary. This creamy, dreamy farina porridge, infused with aromatic spices and sweetened to perfection, is a staple that’s easy to see why it has been passed down through generations.
What exactly is farina food? Farina is essentially milled wheat endosperm, resulting in a fine, pale flour. When cooked, it creates a smooth and creamy texture, making it an ideal base for both sweet and savory dishes. In this Puerto Rican recipe, we lean towards the sweet side, enhancing the natural mildness of farina with a blend of warm spices and a touch of sweetness. Think of it as a comforting hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly mornings or whenever you crave a taste of Puerto Rican soul food. This farina recipe distinguishes itself from simple cream of wheat by incorporating cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves, which are simmered in milk and water to create a fragrant base. Honey and vanilla extract are then stirred in, adding layers of sweetness and warmth that elevate this farina food to new heights of deliciousness. The final touch of butter melting into the hot porridge creates a luscious, golden pool that is simply irresistible.
This Puerto Rican crema de farina is incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and readily available ingredients. It’s a fantastic alternative to oatmeal or other hot cereals, offering a unique flavor profile that will tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re looking to explore new breakfast options or seeking a taste of Puerto Rican culture, this farina food recipe is a must-try.
Serves 4-6
Ingredients
- 2 cups milk
- 2 cups water
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 star anise (optional)
- 2 whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/3 cup agave nectar or honey, plus more for serving
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 1/4 cups farina
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, plus more for serving
Instructions
- Heat a medium-sized pot on medium-low heat.
- Add the milk, water, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, and salt, then let the mixture come to a simmer.
- When the mixture has come to a simmer, add in the butter and farina, and stir to distribute it.
-
Finally, add in the agave or honey, and stir again. At this point you’ll want to stir constantly to prevent the farina from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
-
Cook the farina for 5-7 minutes, until it’s to your desired consistency. For a thicker consistency, cook slightly longer. If the farina food becomes too thick, simply add a splash of milk to thin it out.
- Stir in the vanilla extract. Remove the cinnamon sticks, star anise, and cloves before serving. Serve hot with an extra drizzle of honey or agave, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a pat of butter on top for an extra touch of indulgence.
The beauty of this farina food recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Feel free to adjust the sweetness and spices to your liking. You can also experiment with different toppings such as fresh fruit, nuts, or a sprinkle of cocoa powder. However you choose to serve it, this Puerto Rican crema de farina is guaranteed to become a comforting and cherished dish in your home.
[
