Warming Banana and Date Semolina Porridge

There is nothing more comforting than a big, warm bowl of porridge when you're feeling sniffly and sorry for yourself. This morning all I wanted was porridge- I didn't, however, feel like waiting for half an hour for oats to cook through. If you want creamy porridge in a hurry, give semolina a go. It is deliciously creamy- more like polenta than oats- and cooks in just a few short minutes.

It is very simple to make. For two serves you need 1/3 cup fine semolina, which you blend to a paste with cold water, then gradually add 1 1/2 cups of hot water and half a cup of milk. I mean gradually. If you add it too fast, you'll get lumps and nobody wants lumps in their porridge. Cook, stirring, over a gentle heat until thickened. After you've added all the liquid, throw in some chopped banana and dates, or other fruit of your choice.

Serve with maple syrup, honey, golden syrup or brown sugar, plus a sprinkling of cinnamon. My pick is either golden syrup or maple syrup. Enjoy!