Jyumami

jook

My favorite chinese comfort food – savoury slow-cooked rice porridge.

What is jook?

Jook (in cantonese), also known as congee, is a traditional rice porridge popular in Chinese cuisine, made by simmering rice in plenty of water or broth until it reaches a creamy, smooth and velvety consistency.  Infused with ginger and scallions, it’s a comforting, nourishing dish often served when sick or feeling under the weather. My mother often made it for me when I was sick, and – though it might sound odd – I’d crumble soda crackers in it for extra crunch.  Jook can be enjoyed plain or with toppings like pickled vegetables, green onions, fried shallots, sesame oil, and proteins such as chicken, pork, or century eggs. 

Jook (congee)

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Servings 6 servings
Prep 10 minutes
Cook 1 hour

Ingredients 

  • 2 cups uncooked jasmine rice
  • 32 cups water or 7.5 L
  • 3-4 tbsp chicken bouillon (to taste)
  • 5 slices ginger
  • 2-3 scallions
  • salt (to taste)

Toppings (optional)

  • sesame seeds
  • sesame oil
  • leafy greens (eg. bok choy, lettuce)
  • scallions finely sliced
  • ginger finely sliced
  • pork floss
  • white pepper

Instructions

  • Prepare the rice base: In a large pot, bring 32 cups or 7.5 L of water to a rolling boil. Once boiling, add 2 cups of rinsed and uncooked jasmine rice, stirring briefly to ensure it doesn’t stick.
  • Simmer and stir: Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer gently for 45-60 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes to prevent sticking and create a creamy texture. Stir in 3-4 tablespoons of bouillon powder and add thin slices of ginger and 2-3 sprigs scallions, halved or chopped, to infuse the flavors.
  • Final touches: Add in more water or continue simmering for the jook to reach your preferred consistency. Add in your favourite toppings and serve hot.
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