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Alt-Grain Porridge With Sausages and Grapes

This savoury alt-grain porridge with sausages and grapes offers a sophisticated twist on traditional breakfast grains. By using cracked spelt or barley instead of oats, the dish takes on a wonderful nutty texture and a complex earthy flavour that pairs perfectly with the saltiness of the Parmesan. The addition of roasted grapes provides a burst of natural sweetness, cutting through the richness of the meat for a perfectly balanced morning meal.

As a high-protein option, this recipe is ideal for those seeking a hearty, slow-release energy boost to fuel an active day. The combination of high-quality sausages and ancient grains makes it a satisfying choice for a weekend brunch or a comforting midweek supper. Serve it in deep bowls with a final drizzle of the glossy red wine reduction for a truly cafe-style experience at home.

Ingredients for Alt-Grain Porridge With Sausages and Grapes

  • 150g spelt, wheat berries, or barley

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

  • 30g Parmesan, grated (about 230g )

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 4 sweet Italian sausages

  • 240ml red grapes

  • 120ml fruity red wine

  • 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar

  • 2 sprigs thyme

  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

  • Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper

How to make Alt-Grain Porridge With Sausages and Grapes

Pulse spelt in a blender or food processor until coarsely chopped (all of the grains should be broken open but not ground to a powder). Combine spelt and 950ml water in a large saucepan over medium-high; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer, whisking occasionally, until spelt is tender and mixture is thick, 25–35 minutes. Whisk in Parmesan and butter. Add water by tablespoonfuls if needed to loosen.

While porridge is simmering, heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Cook sausages, turning occasionally, until browned all over and partially cooked but still pink in the centre, 6–8 minutes. Add grapes to skillet and cook, tossing and crushing some with a wooden spoon, until browned and slightly saucy, and sausages are cooked through, about 5 minutes. Transfer sausages to a plate.

Add wine and vinegar to skillet and cook until juices are thickened and syrupy, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and add thyme and butter, swirling pan to incorporate butter into sauce; season with salt and pepper.

Divide grain porridge among bowls. Divide sausages, grapes, and sauce over top.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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UK recipe editors

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UK recipe editors

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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