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Century Egg & Lean Pork Congee: A Cantonese Classic Recipe


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3.8 from 39 reviews

  • Author: Amelia
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 3 servings

Description

A traditional Cantonese comfort dish featuring silky rice porridge cooked with tender lean pork and rich century eggs, delivering deep savory flavors and a smooth texture that warms the soul.


Ingredients

Base

  • 1/2 cup jasmine rice
  • 6 cups water or chicken broth

Meat and Eggs

  • 150 g lean pork, thinly sliced
  • 2 century eggs, chopped

Seasoning and Flavoring

  • 1 tsp soy sauce
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp ginger, finely sliced
  • Green onions for garnish


Instructions

  1. Prepare the rice: Rinse the jasmine rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch and then soak it in water for 20 minutes to soften the grains, ensuring a smooth porridge texture.
  2. Cook the rice base: Bring 6 cups of water or chicken broth to a boil in a large pot. Add the soaked rice, reduce the heat to low, and simmer gently, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice breaks down and porridge thickens, about 30 to 40 minutes.
  3. Marinate the pork: While the rice cooks, combine the thinly sliced lean pork with soy sauce, sesame oil, and cornstarch in a bowl. Mix well and set aside to marinate, which will tenderize the pork and enhance flavor.
  4. Add pork and ginger: Stir the marinated pork and finely sliced ginger into the simmering congee. Continue to cook over low heat until the pork is fully cooked and tender, approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
  5. Incorporate century eggs: Gently fold the chopped century eggs into the congee, cooking for an additional 3 to 5 minutes to allow their unique flavor to infuse the porridge.
  6. Season and garnish: Add salt to taste, stir thoroughly, and remove from heat. Garnish with fresh green onions before serving the congee hot for a comforting meal.

Notes

  • Stir frequently to prevent the rice from sticking to the pot and to achieve a smooth porridge consistency.
  • Adjust the amount of water or broth to make the congee thicker or thinner according to preference.
  • For a subtle spicy warmth, add a pinch of white pepper when seasoning.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Cantonese