Congee (Chinese Rice Porridge) Recipe - The Spruce Eats

Congee (粥 or 稀飯) is a classic Chinese breakfast dish. It is also a staple in many other countries, including Burma, Indonesia, Japan, and even parts of Europe. Congee is essentially a rice porridge made by boiling rice in a great deal of water until it breaks down into a pudding-like consistency.

When made with water, the taste of congee is very bland, but there are many ways that you can add sweet or savory flavors. For a different base, switch to beef, chicken, or vegetable stock (or use equal parts of water and stock), and the rice will soak up that flavor as it cooks. You can also add flavorings like minced ginger and garlic and toppings such as chicken or mushrooms. The flavor possibilities are only limited by your imagination and the ingredients in your kitchen. Congee is often served with Chinese crullers (youtiao, 油條), and the fried dough is dipped into the congee.

Although eaten by all family members, congee is most often served to children and people who are ill or convalescing as it is easy to digest. It's also incredibly economical—3/4 cup of rice turns into 6 cups of porridge—and has traditionally been used to stretch rice when food is scarce.

What Type of Rice Is Best for Congee?

Congee can be made with many different types of rice. Use basic white long-grain rice if you like; jasmine rice is a favorite as well. Other long-grain rice varieties like basmati can create a nice congee, and even short-grain rice will work. Cooking times may vary with any of these options. To make congee with brown rice, extend the soaking time to between 1 and 3 hours, and remember that it may take longer to cook as well.

Tips for Making Congee Recipe

• Adjust the texture - The rice will continue to absorb liquid as it rests. If the congee isn't as thick as you like, remove the pot from the heat, keep it covered, and let it rest for about 15 minutes.
• Use your favorite stock - While using water to cook congee is okay, using your favorite meat broth or veggie broth adds extra flavor.

What You'll Need To Make This Congee Recipe A Measuring Cup A Sturdy Pan A Stirring Spoon