This article is from the WSSF 2011 AFRMA Rat & Mouse Tales news-magazine.

By Laura Tukey, ME

This recipe is a version of an American Indian native food called nasàump (or samp; a cornmeal porridge) that has many variations but is something our critters would enjoy as a special treat during the holidays. Original recipe from Dana Benner’s late mother, Shirley Benner. You can vary the recipe by which ingredients are used each time.

1. In a bowl mix cornmeal, nuts, dried or fresh berries, and maple syrup. The early Native people used acorns, walnuts, chestnuts, and hazelnuts. Berries can be cranberries, blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
2. Then add the mixture to cooled berry tea. If you don’t have berry tea available, you can use plain warm water.
3. Heat the mixture and allow to thicken.
4. The result is a mildly sweet, all-natural cereal with the consistency of oatmeal.