For the ordinary Roman, food was basic. The staple diet consisted mostly of a wheat-based porridge, seasoned with herbs or meat if available. However, as Sally Grainger's recipes show, on special ...

Add a splash of milk and stir well if you find the porridge is too stiff. Ladle into bowls and scatter or pour over your favourite toppings. Serve immediately. Adding a knob of butter to the ...

Polenta is an ancient Roman porridge, originally made with all kinds ... then mixed with Parmesan and butter and traditionally served plain or with hearty, stewy meats. Here the finished polenta ...