Ah, congee – the ultimate comfort food. This Chinese rice porridge has been a staple for centuries, and its versatility knows no bounds. From classic chicken and ginger to bold and spicy Szechuan beef, there’s a congee recipe out there to suit every taste bud. In this article, we’ll dive into 18 delicious and flavorful congee recipes that are sure to become your new go-to comfort food. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or hearty and warming, these congee recipes have got you covered.
Classic Chicken and Ginger Congee
This comforting Chinese rice porridge is a staple in many Asian households, perfect for a soothing and flavorful meal any time of the day. This recipe combines tender chicken, aromatic ginger, and savory aromatics to create a deliciously comforting bowl.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked chicken (cooked and diced)
– 4 cups congee rice (or substitute with Japanese mochigome or glutinous rice)
– 2 inches piece of fresh ginger, peeled and minced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the ginger, garlic, and onion in a little oil until fragrant.
2. Add the cooked chicken, congee rice, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the congee thickens.
3. Season with soy sauce and salt to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a dash of sesame oil if desired.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Pork and Century Egg Congee
A classic Chinese congee recipe that combines the richness of pork with the savory flavor of century eggs, perfect for a comforting and nourishing meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of rice
– 4 cups of water
– 1 pound pork belly or shoulder, sliced into thin strips
– 2 century eggs, peeled and chopped
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the century eggs and stir well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice and enough water to cover the ingredients. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the congee has reached desired consistency.
6. Season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Seafood Medley Congee with Shrimp and Scallops
This comforting congee recipe combines the freshness of shrimp and scallops with the warmth of traditional Chinese cooking. A perfect bowl for a chilly evening or as a light meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of congee rice
– 4 cups of water
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound of shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 6-8 scallops, rinsed and patted dry
– 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the congee rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Drain the congee rice and add it to the pot with 4 cups of fresh water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the rice is cooked.
5. Add the shrimp and scallops to the pot. Stir in soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the seafood is cooked through.
7. Serve hot, garnished with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes
Vegetarian Mushroom and Tofu Congee
Congee, a comforting Chinese rice porridge, is perfect for a cozy night in. This vegetarian version adds savory mushrooms and protein-rich tofu to create a nourishing bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/2 block firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and soak in water for at least 4 hours or overnight. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add tofu and stir-fry for another minute.
5. Add soaked rice, water, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until rice is tender and congee has reached desired consistency.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Spicy Szechuan Beef Congee
A hearty and spicy rice porridge originating from the Sichuan province, this recipe combines tender beef, savory soy sauce, and a hint of numbing peppercorns. Perfect for a cozy night in or a comforting meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of cooked white rice
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 pound of sliced beef (such as brisket or shank), cooked until tender
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons of Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine cooked rice, chicken broth, sliced beef, soy sauce, Szechuan peppercorns, and sesame oil.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Coconut Milk and Lemongrass Congee
Congee, a traditional Asian rice porridge, is often enjoyed as a comforting and easy-to-digest meal. This recipe adds the creamy richness of coconut milk and the citrusy zing of lemongrass to create a unique and satisfying flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the rice has broken down and formed a creamy porridge.
3. Stir in coconut milk, lemongrass, and ginger. Simmer for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
Sweet Corn and Crab Congee
A creamy and comforting rice porridge infused with the sweetness of corn and the brininess of crab, perfect for a soothing meal on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup sweet corn kernels
– 1/4 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger; sauté until fragrant.
2. Add the cooked rice, water, corn kernels, and crab meat. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the congee has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Herbal Chicken and Goji Berry Congee
A soothing and nourishing congee recipe that combines the comforting warmth of chicken with the sweetness of goji berries, all wrapped up in a savory herbal broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons dried astragalus root
– 2 tablespoons dried licorice root
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/2 cup goji berries, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: green onions and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chicken, water, astragalus root, licorice root, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add goji berries, garlic, and salt to the pot. Continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the goji berries have rehydrated and the congee has thickened slightly.
4. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Kimchi and Pork Belly Congee
This recipe combines the spicy kick of kimchi with the richness of pork belly, all wrapped up in a warm and comforting bowl of congee. Perfect for a chilly day or as a soothing remedy when you’re feeling under the weather.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1/2 cup pork belly, diced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine cooked rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes or until the congee has thickened slightly.
2. Add chopped kimchi, diced pork belly, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the congee. Stir well to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional kimchi and sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pumpkin and Coconut Congee
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Pumpkin and Coconut Congee, a nourishing blend of sweet and savory flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup congee rice (or regular long-grain rice)
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt to taste
– Optional: scallions and toasted pumpkin seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the congee rice (or regular rice) and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again, then cook according to package instructions.
3. In a separate pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
4. Stir in the pumpkin puree and shredded coconut. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until fragrant.
5. Combine the cooked rice with the pumpkin-coconut mixture. Season with salt to taste.
6. Simmer for at least 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fish Fillet and Ginger Congee
This comforting congee recipe combines flaky fish fillets with the warmth of ginger, perfect for a cozy meal or soothing remedy. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can enjoy this nourishing dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (such as cod or tilapia), cut into small pieces
– 2 cups congee rice
– 4 cups water
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced thinly
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: scallions, sesame seeds, or chili flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook congee rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add ginger and garlic; cook until fragrant (1 minute).
3. Add fish pieces and cook until opaque and flaky (about 5 minutes per side).
4. Stir in cooked congee rice, water, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the mixture has a creamy consistency.
6. Serve hot, garnished with desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Black Garlic and Mushroom Congee
This comforting congee recipe combines the savory flavors of black garlic and mushrooms, perfect for a chilly evening or as a soothing breakfast. The slow-cooked grains and rich flavors will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice (or glutinous rice)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons black garlic puree
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– Salt to taste
– Optional: scallions, sesame seeds, or soy sauce for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and combine with 4 cups of fresh water in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the congee is creamy and cooked.
4. Heat oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
6. Stir in black garlic puree and season with salt to taste.
7. Serve the congee hot, topped with mushroom mixture and garnishes of your choice.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours (congee) + 10 minutes (mushroom preparation)
Lotus Seed and Red Date Congee
This nourishing congee recipe combines the benefits of lotus seeds, red dates, and rice to create a soothing and comforting bowl. Perfect for a chilly evening or when you need a boost of energy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of uncooked white rice
– 2 cups of water
– 1/4 cup of dried lotus seeds
– 3-4 fresh red dates, pitted
– Optional: a pinch of salt and a drizzle of sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice thoroughly and combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
3. Add the lotus seeds and red dates to the congee. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the fruits are rehydrated and the flavors have melded together.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Serve warm, garnished with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of sesame oil if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Enjoy your comforting bowl of Lotus Seed and Red Date Congee!
Scallop and Ginger Congee
Congee, a comforting Asian-style rice porridge, is the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a soothing breakfast. This Scallop and Ginger Congee recipe adds a luxurious twist with succulent scallops and fragrant ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated
– 12 large scallops
– Salt to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and soak in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse rice again.
3. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add grated ginger; cook for an additional minute.
5. Add soaked rice and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours or until porridge-like consistency is reached.
6. Add scallops during the last 10 minutes of cooking time. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including soaking time)
Spinach and Tofu Congee
Congee, a traditional Chinese rice porridge, is an excellent comfort food for any time of the day. This Spinach and Tofu Congee recipe adds a nutritious twist with the addition of spinach and tofu.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups water
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small pieces
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain and cook the rice with 4 cups of water until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is creamy.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the chopped spinach to the pan and stir-fry until wilted.
5. Add the cooked tofu and spinach mixture to the congee and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Shrimp and Sweet Potato Congee
Shrimp and Sweet Potato Congee: A Comforting Chinese-Inspired Porridge Recipe
Congee is a popular Chinese porridge made with rice, water, and various ingredients. This recipe adds shrimp and sweet potatoes to create a hearty and comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 medium-sized sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, sesame oil, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the rice again. In a large pot, combine the rice and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the rice is tender and creamy.
3. Add the diced sweet potatoes, vegetable oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir well and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are soft.
4. Add the shrimp to the pot and stir well. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and a drizzle of soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours
Chicken and Sweet Corn Congee
Congee, a traditional Chinese rice porridge, is often served as a comfort food or a soothing remedy. This recipe adds tender chicken and sweet corn to create a hearty and flavorful dish perfect for any time of the day.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of uncooked white rice
– 4 cups of water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 1 medium-sized onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of sweet corn kernels
– 1 tsp of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Cook the chicken, onion, and garlic in a pot with sesame oil until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Add the sweet corn kernels to the pot and stir well.
4. Drain and rinse the soaked rice, then add it to the pot with 4 cups of water.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour or until the rice is fully cooked and the congee has reached desired consistency.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour
Pork and Pickled Mustard Greens Congee
A hearty and comforting congee recipe that combines the flavors of pork, pickled mustard greens, and savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried rice noodles
– 2 cups pork bones (or 1 pound pork belly, sliced)
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bunch pickled mustard greens, chopped
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice noodles and soak them in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onion and garlic and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the soaked rice noodles, pickled mustard greens, soy sauce, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until the congee has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Summary
Looking for a comforting meal that’s easy to make? Congee, a traditional Chinese rice porridge, is just what you need. Our collection of 18 flavorful congee recipes will warm your belly and soothe your soul. From classic chicken and ginger to spicy Szechuan beef, and even vegetarian options like mushroom and tofu, there’s something for everyone. We’ve also included unique combinations like kimchi and pork belly, and sweet corn and crab. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, our congee recipes are sure to hit the spot.
