Judging quantities for porridge is tricky and often leaves a surplus. But don’t let it go to waste – instead, transform it into a treat

I ran an alpine chalet in my early 20s, and each morning I’d serve the creamiest, most decadent porridge: sweet and rich, like a dessert, and probably best not eaten every day. Then a Scottish guest requested it be made with nothing but water. I was sceptical but found that, cooked slowly and with the addition of salt, this frugal approach became unctuous, flavourful and creamy.

Cooked in this way, porridge is the ultimate budget breakfast: satiating, affordable and hugely nourishing. However, it can be hard to cook the right quantity, leaving gooey leftovers that seem as if they are good for nothing. Until, that is, you try leftover porridge pancakes.

To make perfect porridge without waste, measure out 50g rolled oats and 350ml water or milk per person, add a tiny pinch of salt, and bring to a gentle simmer on a low heat. Cook, stirring often, for six to 10 minutes, until the oats are soft, adding a little more water if it gets too thick.

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Leftover porridge pancakes

Once you’ve tried these brilliant brunch bites, you’ll probably never throw away any leftover porridge again. Or you may even start to make extra deliberately.

Leftover porridge

An equal amount of flour, preferably wholemeal

1 tsp bicarbonate of soda per 100g of flour

1 egg per 500g porridge mixture

Water or milk

Oil, for frying

Fruit, yoghurt and honey, to serve

Measure the leftover porridge and add the same quantity of flour plus a teaspoon of baking powder per 100g flour. Mix in an egg for every 500g of mixture, then beat in water (or milk) a little at a time, until you have a thickish batter the consistency of double cream.

Heat a tiny drizzle of oil in a thick-based frying pan, and brush around the pan to coat it evenly. Pour a small ladle of batter into the pan (more, if you have space) and leave to cook for a couple of minutes, until the batter sets and you see bubbles rising to the surface. Flip the pancakes over and cook for another minute, until set. Serve with your favourite pancake topping.