Congee (Rice Porridge)

Congee (Rice Porridge)

Long-Grain Rice

Congee is a hot rice porridge that is served for breakfast all over China, accompanied with pickled vegetables such as brined turnips. Congee takes a long time to cook, but it is easily digested and is therefore suitable for those with delicate stomachs. It pairs well with herbs, meat, seafood, eggs (such as pídàn), and vegetables.

Recipe Servings: 4

Prep Time

5 minutes

Cook Time

1 hour 30 minutes

Total Time

1 hour 35 minutes

Vegetarian

Vegan

Gluten Free

Dairy Free

Kosher

Halal

Ingredients

1 cup (190 g) long-grain rice (such as jasmine or basmati)
10 cups (2.4 l) water
1 tsp (5 ml) salt
1 cup (225 g) ground meat (optional)
Pickled vegetables or pídàn, as needed for serving (optional)

Directions

Bring rice and water to a boil in a large pot.
Stir in salt.
Simmer on low with lid tilted at an angle to allow steam to escape, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Cook for 60–90 minutes, or until congee becomes thick and creamy.
Stir in ground meat after 30 minutes, if using.
Serve with pickled vegetables or pídàn, if desired.