how to make tom brown

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction

2. What is Tom Brown?

3. Ingredients

4. Equipment Needed

5. Step-by-Step Instructions
5.1. Toasting the Flour
5.2. Preparing the Tom Brown Porridge
5.3. Cooking the Porridge

6. Serving and Enjoying Tom Brown

1. Introduction:
Tom Brown is a popular West African porridge made from toasted cornmeal or wheat flour. It is a nutritious and filling breakfast option enjoyed by many in countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, and Sierra Leone. In this article, we will guide you through the process of making delicious Tom Brown right in your own kitchen.

2. What is Tom Brown?
Tom Brown is a hearty porridge that is commonly consumed for breakfast. It is named after Thomas Brown, a British medical doctor who developed a nutritious mixture for infants in the 19th century. The West African version of Tom Brown evolved to become a staple breakfast dish due to its rich flavor and nutritional benefits.

3. Ingredients:
To make Tom Brown, you will need the following ingredients:

2 cups of cornmeal or wheat flour
1 cup of peanuts (optional)
1 cup of milk powder
1/2 cup of sugar (adjust to taste)
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon of salt
Water (as needed for cooking)

4. Equipment Needed:
To prepare Tom Brown, you will require:
A large frying pan or skillet
A mixing bowl
A wooden spoon or spatula
A blender or food processor (if using peanuts)
A saucepan or pot for cooking the porridge
Measuring cups and spoons

5. Step-by-Step Instructions:

5.1. Toasting the Flour:

Heat the frying pan or skillet over medium heat.
Add the cornmeal or wheat flour and toast it, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown. This process helps enhance the flavor of the porridge.
Remove the toasted flour from the heat and let it cool.

5.2. Preparing the Tom Brown Porridge:

If using peanuts, blend them in a blender or food processor until finely ground.
In a mixing bowl, combine the toasted flour, ground peanuts (if using), milk powder, sugar, vanilla extract, and salt. Mix well to ensure even distribution of ingredients.

5.3. Cooking the Porridge:

In a saucepan or pot, bring water to a boil. The amount of water needed depends on how thick or thin you prefer your porridge.
Gradually add the Tom Brown mixture to the boiling water while stirring continuously to avoid lumps.

Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the porridge for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The porridge will thicken as it cooks.

If the porridge becomes too thick, you can add more water gradually until you achieve your desired consistency.

6. Serving and Enjoying Tom Brown:
Once the Tom Brown porridge reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat.
Allow it to cool slightly before serving to avoid burning your mouth.

Tom Brown can be enjoyed plain or with additions such as sliced bananas, chopped nuts, or a drizzle of honey.
Serve the porridge warm and savor its delicious flavor and creamy texture.

Conclusion:
Making Tom Brown at home is a delightful way to experience the flavors and traditions of West African cuisine. This creamy porridge, with its roasted grain base and a touch of sweetness, is both satisfying and nutritious. By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious bowl of Tom Brown to enjoy as a nourishing breakfast or snack. So, go ahead and embark on this culinary adventure to savor the taste of West Africa in your own kitchen!