Carnrick's Soluble Food Porridge
This historical recipe details the preparation of Carnrick's Soluble Food, a malted wheat and milk powder that was a staple for infants and invalids in the late 19th century. The method creates a smooth, digestible porridge by carefully whisking the powder into boiling water at specific ratios to ensure the perfect consistency. While the original brand is no longer produced, this technique can be applied to modern malted milk powders or wheat-based infant cereals for a comforting, warm nourishment.
Ingredients
- 1/4 cup Malted milk powder (Originally 'Carnrick's Soluble Food'. Use malted milk powder or wheat-based infant cereal as a modern substitute. Measure level, not heaped.)
- 2 1/4 cups Water (Boiling. Quantity reflects the 1:9 ratio for infants. For adults, use approx. 1 1/4 cups (1:5 ratio).)
- 1 teaspoon Sugar (Optional, to taste. The original text suggests adding a little if the taste is disagreeable.)
Instructions
- 1Measure the food powder using a spoon or small glass. Ensure the measurement is level and flat to the rim, not heaped or overflowing.
- 2Bring the water to a rolling boil in a clean saucepan. For infants, use 9 parts water to 1 part food. For older infants (10 months), reduce to 7 parts water. For adults, use 5 parts water to 1 part food.
- 3Gradually add the boiling water to the food powder in a clean vessel, mixing thoroughly to ensure no lumps remain. If the taste is disagreeable, a small amount of sugar may be added.
- 4Serve the porridge immediately while hot. Do not let it sit, as the food particles will settle to the bottom.