What Is Congee?
Congee is a delicious and healing rice porridge that is known by many names across Asia. There are countless variations of recipes and it can be simple or gourmet, hearty or elegant.
This is the version of congee that we make in my house. We eat it to help soothe upset stomachs, recover from colds and flus, and whenever we need a simple, warm comfort food. It’s also a classic food that can be consumed to recover from overindulgence in rich food or drink.
Ingredients
1 cup of rice (short grain or cracked is best)
10 cups of liquid (I use 4 cups of chicken stock + 6 cups of water)
1 inch of ginger peeled and thickly sliced
1 bunch of scallions slivered (optional)
1 chicken breast or 2-3 chicken thighs with bones and skins (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Sesame oil and gluten free soy sauce to taste (optional)
Directions
Combine rice, liquid, ginger, white parts of scallions and chicken in a pot and bring to a boil. Cover and reduce heat to simmer for 1-4 hours or until rice is thoroughly broken down into a silky porridge. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom. Remove chicken and ginger. Shred chicken and add back to pot. Discard ginger, chicken bones, and chicken skin. Season with salt and pepper. Serve topped with slivered green scallions and a drizzle of sesame oil and soy sauce.
Health Benefits Of Congee
This congee is simple, but it’s packed with health benefits that are perfect for recovery. Ginger helps soothe the stomach and reduce inflammation. Rice porridge provides a source of easily digestible carbohydrates for energy. Boiled chicken provides a source of easily digestible protein and minerals. The gently salted broth is hydrating and provides a source of electrolytes.
Recipe Variations
Congee broth can be made more healthy with the addition of more herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables. Congee can be topped with all kinds of delicious foods for a fancier or heartier meal. There are many different twists to the basic recipe depending on the country of origin.
Summary
Congee is a beloved Asian rice porridge that provides many health benefits and is especially helpful when recovering from illness or overindulgence.
