The Best Homemade Jook Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Homemade jook is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. Plus, it’s super easy to customize with your favorite toppings and flavors!
- It’s incredibly soothing and nourishing, making it a go-to meal for any time of day.
- You can make it with simple pantry staples, so there’s no need for a fancy trip to the store.
- It’s the perfect way to use up leftover rice, reducing waste while creating something delicious.
Recipe
Jook, also known as congee or rice porridge, is a comforting and versatile dish enjoyed in many Asian cultures. It’s a simple yet nourishing meal that can be customized with various toppings and flavors. This recipe yields a creamy and smooth consistency perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice (or short-grain rice)
- 10 cups water (or chicken/vegetable broth for added flavor)
- 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and sliced
- Optional toppings: soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, cilantro, boiled eggs, fried garlic, or shredded chicken
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear.
- In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, water (or broth), and ginger slices.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook for 1 to 1½ hours, or until the rice has broken down and the porridge reaches a creamy consistency. Add more water if needed to achieve your preferred thickness.
- Discard the ginger slices before serving.
- Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Notes:
- For a richer flavor, sauté the rinsed rice in a teaspoon of oil before adding water or broth.
- Leftover jook can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat with additional water or broth to adjust consistency.
Equipment:
Large pot, wooden spoon, measuring cup
Time:
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 1 to 1½ hours
Cuisine:
Asian
Serving:
Serves 4–6
Nutrition
This homemade jook recipe is packed with nutrients to keep you energized. Here’s a breakdown of its nutritional value per serving.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Carbohydrates | 30g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Fat | 3g |
| Sodium | 400mg |
| Potassium | 250mg |
What To Serve With It
When I make jook, I love pairing it with simple side dishes like pickled veggies or crispy fried shallots, which add texture and flavor. For drinks, I often go with a light green tea or a revitalizing herbal infusion to balance the meal. These choices keep the meal comforting yet interesting, and I think you’ll find they complement the jook perfectly.
Side Dishes
Since jook is such a comforting, simple dish, it’s fun to pair it with sides that add texture or a pop of flavor. I love crispy fried shallots or scallions for crunch, or a drizzle of chili oil for heat. Pickled veggies, like radishes or cucumbers, bring tangy brightness, while a soft-boiled egg adds richness. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll serve it with steamed greens, like bok choy, or crispy roasted peanuts for extra bite. These sides keep the meal light but exciting, balancing the jook’s creamy warmth. Experiment to find your favorite combo—it’s all about what makes you happy!
Beverage Pairings
Pairing beverages with jook can transform this humble dish into a cozy, well-rounded meal. I love sipping on jasmine tea because its floral notes balance the savory richness of the porridge. Sometimes, I’ll reach for a light, citrusy white wine if I’m feeling fancy. For something invigorating, a glass of cold soy milk or ginger-infused iced tea works wonders. If I’m in the mood for warmth, a simple mug of hot water with lemon feels just right. I’ve even tried kombucha for a fizzy twist—it’s fun and unexpected. Experimenting with drinks keeps my jook meals exciting and satisfying every time.
