If you’ve been into Zen Den lately, you may have noticed something new: our congee kits! I’ve been putting a lot of love into these, and I wanted to share a little more about the simple meal that inspired them.
As an acupuncturist and herbalist, I love helping people bring Chinese medicine into their everyday lives. Food is one of my favorite places to start. We eat every day, and a nourishing meal can be a small, practical way to care for ourselves.
With cooler mornings and the holidays approaching, this feels like the perfect time to introduce you to congee.
What Is Congee?
Congee is a rice porridge made by slowly simmering rice in plenty of water or broth until it becomes soft and creamy. Versions of it are enjoyed throughout Asia, with different names, ingredients, and family traditions.
It can be savory or sweet, a full meal or a simple bowl with just a few toppings. At its heart, it’s humble food: rice, liquid, time, and whatever you’d like to add.
If you grew up with chicken soup as your comfort food, you’ll understand the feeling of a warm bowl of congee.
A Chinese Medicine Perspective
In traditional Chinese medicine, warm, cooked foods are often used to support the Spleen and Stomach—the traditional systems associated with transforming food into nourishment. These concepts describe a Chinese medicine framework rather than the functions of the anatomical organs alone.
Congee’s soft texture and simple preparation make it a familiar part of traditional food therapy. The ingredients and additions can be adjusted to the person, the season, and their appetite.
In my own practice, I appreciate how approachable it is. You don’t need an elaborate recipe or a kitchen full of ingredients to make something warm and satisfying.
Why I Love It for This Time of Year
November can fill up quickly. Between work, family schedules, holiday preparations, and everything else on the list, meals can become one more thing to figure out.
Congee gives you a simple foundation. Make a pot, then add protein, vegetables, and toppings to turn it into a meal that suits you.
There’s also something comforting about letting a pot simmer while you go about your morning. Sitting down to eat it is a chance to pause—even if you only have a few minutes.
How to Make a Basic Congee
This is an easy starting point. Adjust the liquid and cooking time to get the texture you enjoy.
Ingredients
1 cup uncooked white rice, rinsed
8–10 cups water or broth
A few slices of fresh ginger, optional
Salt or other seasonings to taste
Instructions
Place the rice, 8 cups of water or broth, and optional ginger in your Crock-Pot.
Cover and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours, until the rice breaks down and becomes soft and creamy.
Stir well, adding more hot water or broth as needed to reach your preferred consistency.
Season to taste and serve warm with your favorite toppings.
Cooking time will vary depending on your slow cooker, the rice, and your preferred consistency. For a thinner porridge, add more liquid. For a thicker bowl, use less of the additional liquid.
Make It Your Own
A basic congee is a starting point, and the toppings are where you can have some fun.
For a savory bowl, try:
Shredded cooked chicken or tofu
Sautéed mushrooms
Cooked leafy greens
A fully cooked egg
Sliced green onions
A drizzle of sesame oil
For a breakfast version, cook the rice in water and add stewed apples or pears, cinnamon, and a little sweetener if you like.
Rice alone makes a light dish. Adding protein and other ingredients can make it a more substantial meal.
Why I Created the Zen Den Congee Kits
I wanted to make this tradition easier to bring home.
Our kits combine rice with selected herbs and ingredients, so you have a starting point without needing to source everything individually. You can follow the package directions and add your own favorite finishing touches.
Because the blends contain herbs, please ask us about the ingredients if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication, or choosing a kit for someone with a medical condition. We’re happy to help you find an appropriate option.
Mostly, I hope these kits inspire you to make a little room for nourishment in your day. Something warm on the stove. A meal you can sit down to enjoy. A simple ritual you look forward to.
You can find our congee kits in the Zen Den retail area. Ask us about them at your next visit—we’d love to help you get started.
Live out of the area? We can ship your kit directly to you. Shop the collection online and keep something warm + nourishing on hand all season long.
With Warmth,
Dr. Michelle Hamilton