Having a VERY RICE DAY cooking up this comforting Congee Recipe (jook)

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will guide you through making a comforting bowl of Chinese congee, also known as jook. This versatile dish is perfect for any meal and can be customized with various toppings. Follow these step-by-step instructions to recreate this childhood favorite right at home.

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

• Finely chop the following:
  • 5 pieces of garlic
  • 1 onion
• Peel and finely chop:
  • 200g daikon radish
• Rinse and drain:
  • 1 cup long grain rice
• Gather additional ingredients for congee:
  • 9 cups water
  • 3 tbsp avocado oil
  • 2 tbsp miso paste
  • 150g shimeji mushrooms

Topping Ingredients

• 200g extra firm tofu
• 1/2 cup peanuts
• 2 tbsp white sesame seeds
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp dark soy sauce
• Green onions to taste
• Ginger to taste
• Chili oil to taste

Step 2: Sauté the Base

1. Heat a large stock pot over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of avocado oil.
2. Add the chopped daikon, onions, and garlic.
3. Sauté for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables are softened.

Step 3: Cook the Rice

1. Add the rinsed rice to the pot and sauté for a few minutes.
2. Turn the heat up to medium-high and add 2 cups of water.
3. Incorporate the miso paste, stirring until most of the water has evaporated.

Step 4: Add Water Gradually

1. Add another 2 cups of water, stirring continuously.
2. Once the porridge thickens, add 2 more cups of water.
3. Continue stirring; if the porridge boils too aggressively, reduce the heat or remove from heat briefly.
4. Repeat this process by adding another 2 cups of water and stirring. Use a whisk if necessary for a smoother texture.
5. Finally, add the shimeji mushrooms and 1 cup of water. Stir and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes. Then, cover the pot and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Tofu Topping

1. Pat dry the extra firm tofu and crumble it with a fork.
2. Heat a nonstick pan on medium heat, add peanuts, and toast for a couple of minutes.
3. Add the white sesame seeds and toast for another minute, then set aside.
4. Return the pan to medium heat, drizzle with avocado oil, and add the crumbled tofu.
5. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, then add soy sauce and dark soy sauce. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes.
6. Combine the tofu crumble with the toasted peanuts.

Step 6: Plate the Congee

1. Serve the congee in bowls.
2. Garnish with:
   • Thinly sliced ginger sticks
   • Finely chopped green onions
   • Tofu peanut crumble
   • A dash of soy sauce
   • Chili oil to taste

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully made a delicious bowl of congee. This dish is not only comforting but also highly customizable with various toppings. Enjoy your creation and consider experimenting with different ingredients for future batches. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to learn more recipes!