Say “traditional Irish breakfast” to most people, and their thoughts will turn to some of our most popular products: breakfast sausages, black and white pudding, back bacon rashers and so on. But the truth is – whisper it – most people don’t eat this kind of food often, as it’s not particularly healthy. The real traditional Irish breakfast, in terms of popularity, is good old porridge. And if you want to indulge in this timeless classic, you’ll find nothing better than Flahavan’s Progress Oatlets.
Flahavan’s is a family-owned Irish business that has been milling oats in County Waterford for over 200 years. In an age of ever-expanding brands, it’s refreshing to come across a company which concentrates on doing one thing only, and doing it well. Perhaps it’s this dedication that has made Flahavan’s Progress Oatlets Ireland’s favourite brand of porridge.
The oats used by Flahavan’s to make Progress Oatlets are all grown within 100km of their home by the River Mahon. It’s the perfect climate for growing delicious oats, and that short trip to the mill means they arrive fresh from the harvest and full of flavour.
Flahavan’s use a unique milling process to produce their porridge oats, which gives them a rich, creamy texture and lightly toasted aroma. If you’ve tried porridge before, but didn’t take to it because it seemed like tasteless slop, we suggest you give Flahavan’s Progress Oatlets a try – you might be pleasantly surprised. They’re a little coarser than many oatmeals, but at around five minutes’ cooking time they’re still quick and easy to prepare.
Porridge can be enjoyed in many different ways. Traditionally it is prepared very simply, cooked in water with just a little salt or sugar added. Nowadays, most people like to use milk rather than water, for a softer, creamier texture. It’s really easy to make porridge more interesting by adding honey, or chopped fruit such as apple, banana or strawberry. Some people even add a spoonful or two of yoghurt for something really indulgent.
A good bowl of porridge oats is an excellent way to start the day. It’s satisfyingly filling, and keeps hunger at bay all the way until lunchtime. Oats are high in fibre, aiding digestion, and contain complex sugars which release energy slowly over several hours, giving you the energy you need to power through your day. Whether you’re an endurance athlete, a cycle tourist, or just on your feet all day, there’s no better way to fuel your exertions.
