How to Make Thai Herbal Congee

Thai herbal congee, known as “Jok,” is a comforting and nutritious rice porridge that is deeply rooted in Thai cuisine. This delicious dish combines the goodness of rice with the benefits of various herbs, making it an ideal meal for breakfast or any time of the day. In this guide, you will learn how to prepare Thai herbal congee at home with simple ingredients.

Ingredients Needed

  • 1 cup jasmine rice
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
  • 2-3 stalks green onions, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
  • 1-2 Thai bird chilies, sliced (optional, for heat)
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • Protein of choice (e.g., poached egg, chicken, or tofu)

Instructions to Prepare Thai Herbal Congee

1. Rinse the Rice

Begin by thoroughly rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps to remove excess starch and prevents the congee from becoming too gloopy.

2. Cook the Rice

In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice with the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Add the Aromatics

After the rice has softened and broken down, add the minced ginger and salt. Stir the mixture well to blend the flavors. Continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until you reach your desired consistency.

4. Prepare the Garnishes

While the congee simmers, prepare your garnishes. Chop the green onions, cilantro, and slice the Thai bird chilies if you're using them. If you prefer a protein in your congee, poach an egg or cook your chosen protein at this stage.

5. Serve

Once the congee reaches the desired creaminess, remove it from the heat. Serve it hot in bowls, and top with soy sauce, sesame oil, and the prepared garnishes. For an extra touch, add your choice of protein on top.

Tips for Perfect Thai Herbal Congee

  • For a richer flavor, substitute some of the broth with coconut milk.
  • Adjust the thickness of the congee by adding more broth if it becomes too thick.
  • Feel free to customize the herbs and proteins based on your preferences.
  • For a vegetarian version, ensure you use vegetable broth and tofu or omit the protein altogether.

Thai herbal congee is not only a fulfilling dish but also an incredibly versatile one. Enjoy it as a meal on its own or pair it with side dishes for a complete Thai culinary experience. Whether it’s a chilly morning or you’re feeling under the weather, this healing bowl of congee is sure to warm your heart and soul.