Simple Congee

Let's Cook

1. Step 1.

   If starting with cooked rice: In a pot over medium-high heat, add 2 cups cooked rice and cover it with water by ½ inch. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice grains expand and break apart, creating a thick, creamy porridge.

2. Step 2.

   If starting with uncooked rice: In a pot over medium-high heat, add 1 cup uncooked rice and 4 cups water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, stirring frequently, for about 1 hour, or until thick. For a creamier texture, continue simmering for up to 1½ hours.

3. Step 3.

   While the congee simmers, prepare condiments as desired. For century eggs: Peel and cut each egg into 4 wedges. Drizzle with soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced cilantro if desired.

4. Step 4.

   For Chinese sausage: Slice 2 to 3 links into ¼-inch pieces. In a small pan over medium heat, render the sausage until heated through and fat is released. Remove to a paper towel to drain before serving.

5. Step 5.

   For spicy peanuts: Serve Huang Fei Hong Spicy Peanuts or similar as a crunchy, spicy topping.

6. Step 6.

   For other condiments: Prepare simple stir-fried greens, tomato egg, pickles, canned eel, smacked cucumber, roasted sweet potato, or shrimp and pork noodles in broth as desired.