Congee is a traditional Chinese dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is made by slowly cooking rice in a large amount of water until it becomes soft and porridge-like. Congee can be flavored with various ingredients such as meat, fish, vegetables, or even fruits, and it is often served as a breakfast or a light meal.

I am going to share with you my experience of making congee. Last month, my grandmother taught me how to make congee, and I have been making it ever since. It is a simple recipe, but it requires some time and patience.

First, we need to wash the rice thoroughly. This helps to remove any impurities and excess starch from the grains. After rinsing the rice a few times, we soak it in water for about 30 minutes. Soaking the rice helps to soften the grains and reduce the cooking time.

Next, we prepare the main ingredients for the congee. I usually like to make chicken congee, so I chop some chicken into small pieces and marinate it with salt, pepper, and a little bit of soy sauce. Meanwhile, I also chop some ginger and green onions, which will add a delicious aroma to the congee.

Once the rice has soaked and the ingredients are ready, it's time to cook the congee. I put the rice and water in a large pot and bring it to a boil. Then, I reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1 hour. It's important to stir the congee occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The longer you cook the congee, the softer and creamier it will become.

After an hour, I add the marinated chicken, ginger, and green onions to the pot. I also add a pinch of salt for extra flavor. I continue to cook the congee for another 30 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the congee reaches the desired consistency. If necessary, I adjust the seasoning by adding more salt or pepper.

Finally, I serve the congee in bowls and garnish it with some chopped green onions. Sometimes, I also like to add a drizzle of sesame oil for a nutty flavor. The warmth and comforting taste of the congee always bring a smile to my face.

Making congee has become a favorite activity of mine. It not only allows me to connect with my Chinese heritage but also gives me a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction. I hope you will also give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade congee. Happy cooking!