Porridge is a wonderfully warming and nourishing way to begin the day, especially during the cooler months. But if you are growing tired of oats—or simply want to introduce more variety into your diet—there are plenty of other grains and seeds to explore.

Buckwheat can be used to make kasha, while rice, millet, and quinoa all make delicious porridge. One of my favourite alternatives is Job’s tears: a satisfying, slightly chewy grain with a mild, nutty flavour.

What are Job’s tears?

Job’s tears are sometimes called Chinese pearl barley because they look a little like plump barley grains. However, just as buckwheat is not actually wheat, Job’s tears are not barley. They are naturally gluten-free and also contain a good amount of protein.

Also known as coix seeds or yi yi ren in Chinese medicine, Job’s tears are traditionally used to help the body clear “Dampness.” Dampness may show up as fluid retention, loose stools, a heavy or foggy feeling in the head, or swollen and aching joints.

Job’s tears are considered cooling, so when making this porridge in winter, I like to balance them with warming cinnamon and ginger.

You can usually find Job’s tears in Asian supermarkets. They are also delicious added to soups or cooked and served in place of rice. If you do cook them this way, save the cooking water. Add a little lemon juice and honey to make a refreshing, gluten-free alternative to lemon barley water.

Why add pears?

Pears are considered cooling and moistening in Chinese medicine. They are traditionally used to nourish the Lungs, ease dryness and help transform phlegm. Slowly cooked in this porridge, they become soft, naturally sweet and delicious.

Apples also work beautifully, or you can use one pear and one apple.

Warming spices for winter

Cinnamon, or rou gui, is deeply warming and makes a lovely addition to winter cooking. In Chinese medicine, it is used to warm the body, support circulation and nourish the digestive system. If you tend to feel very hot—or are making this porridge during summer—you may prefer to leave it out.

Fresh ginger, or sheng jiang, also warms and supports digestion. Its gentle heat balances the cooling nature of the Job’s tears and pears, making the porridge more suitable for a cold winter morning.

Job’s Tears Porridge

Prepare this in your slow cooker before bed and wake to a warm, comforting breakfast.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup Job’s tears
  • 750 ml boiling water
  • 2 large organic pears or apples, or one of each, cored and thinly sliced
  • ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1 small knob of fresh ginger, finely chopped or grated
  • Pinch of nutmeg, optional
  • Pinch of sea salt
  • Zest of 1 large organic orange or tangelo
  • Maple syrup or honey, to taste
  • Plant-based milk to serve—I used Coco Quench, a blend of coconut and rice milk
  • Crushed, dry-roasted nuts to serve

Method

  1. Place the Job’s tears and boiling water in your slow cooker.
  2. Arrange the sliced pears or apples over the top.
  3. Combine the cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, salt and orange zest, then sprinkle over the fruit.
  4. Cover and cook overnight for approximately 6–8 hours.
  5. In the morning, spoon into bowls and add a little plant-based milk.
  6. Sweeten with maple syrup or honey and finish with a sprinkle of crushed, dry-roasted nuts.

Walnuts are a particularly lovely addition in winter, as they are traditionally used to nourish Kidney energy. Pine nuts are another good choice, especially if you tend towards dryness or constipation.

A warm, satisfying breakfast—and a delicious reason to give your usual oats the morning off.

Bon appetit!

Your feedback and questions are always welcome so please leave a comment below.

For further information on Chinese Medicine contact Tania Grasseschi (Acupuncture, Chinese Herbs, Qigong and Wholefood counselling). Tania is an AHPRA registered practitioner of Chinese Medicine located in Katoomba, NSW and has spent 6 years lecturing at the Endeavour College of Natural Health Sydney campus.

The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only, and does not substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment. Remember that you are responsible for your own health and safety at all times.