Spicy baked porridge

Method

• step 1

  Preheat the oven to 180C/Gas 4.

• step 2

  Combine the oats and vanilla seeds in a mixing bowl – use your fingers to rub the seeds through the oats. Add the spices, nuts, raisins and pear and mix well. Stir in the milk and cream, and then pour the mixture into a baking dish. Dust with a little extra grated nutmeg.

• step 3

  Place in the oven and bake for30–35 minutes, or until the oats are completely softened and the liquid absorbed.

• step 4

  Heat the grill on its highest setting. Sprinkle the top of the porridge with the sugar and place under the grill for 3–4 minutes, or until the sugar has melted and created a crust.

• step 5

  Serve warm, with a little extra milk on the side if desired