How to Make the Perfect Congee
Chinese · Easy · 45 min · 4 servings
Congee is a warm and soothing Chinese rice porridge that is one of the most comforting foods kids can eat especially when they are under the weather. This simple version is endlessly customizable with kid-friendly toppings making it a versatile family staple.
Why this recipe works
This Congee recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 45 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 210 calories with 8g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 cup jasmine rice
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 2 stalks green onions sliced
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Combine Rice and Broth
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water and add it to a large pot with the chicken broth and grated ginger. Stir everything together and bring to a boil over medium high heat.
Step 2: Simmer Until Creamy
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the congee stirring occasionally for 35 to 40 minutes until the rice has completely broken down and the porridge is thick and creamy.
Step 3: Season the Congee
Stir in the soy sauce and sesame oil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add additional broth if the congee is thicker than you prefer.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Ladle the hot congee into bowls and top with sliced green onions. Offer kids a variety of toppings such as shredded chicken soft boiled egg or crackers.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- chicken broth → vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
- jasmine rice → short grain white rice for an equally creamy result
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not stirring occasionally which causes the rice to stick to the bottom of the pot
- Using too little liquid which results in congee that is too thick and pasty
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 210 calories, 8g protein, 38g carbs, 3g fat, 1g fiber.
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