Fish congee is a popular rice porridge dish that originated in China and is now enjoyed all over the world. In this article, we will show you how to make fish congee from scratch. We will cover everything from the ingredients you need to the step-by-step process of making the dish. So, let’s get started!
What is Fish Congee and Where Did it Originate From?
Fish congee is a type of rice porridge that originated in China and is now enjoyed all over the world. Congee is a type of rice porridge that is made by boiling rice in a large amount of water or broth until it becomes thick and creamy. Fish congee is made by adding fish to the congee, which gives it a unique flavor and texture. It is a simple yet flavorful dish that is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
The dish has a long history in China and is believed to have been invented by the Yellow Emperor himself. By the Han dynasty, congee had taken on medicinal uses as well. Today, fish congee is enjoyed in many parts of the world and is often served as a comfort food.
Ingredients for Fish Congee.
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make fish congee:
- 1 cup white rice
- 12 ounces delicate white fish filets (such as flounder, sliced into large chunks)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt plus more to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper plus more to taste
- 2 teaspoons oyster sauce
- 2 teaspoons Shaoxing wine
- 1 teaspoon ginger (grated)
- 1 large egg white
Fish Congee Recipe: The Step By Step Process.
Here is a step-by-step process of making fish congee:
- Wash the rice: Rinse the rice 1-2 times, mixing it in the water with your hands before discarding the starchy water. Submerge and soak the rice for 30 minutes. Drain and transfer to a resealable bag or other freezer-safe container. Freeze for at least 8 hours.
- Marinate the fish: Add the fish pieces to a medium bowl. Marinate the fish with salt, white pepper, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, and ginger. Use your hands to toss the fish to coat. Add the egg white, and gently mix until the marinade feels slippery and each fish chunk is well-coated.
- Cook the rice: In a large pot, bring 8 cups of water or chicken stock to a boil. Add the frozen rice and stir to break up any clumps. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the fish: Add the marinated fish to the pot and stir gently to combine. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the fish is cooked through and the congee is thick and creamy.
- Serve: Ladle the congee into bowls and garnish with chopped scallions, cilantro, and fried shallots.
Fish Congee Servings Suggestions.
- Garnish: Top the congee with chopped scallions, cilantro, and fried shallots for added flavor and texture.
- Soy Sauce: Drizzle some soy sauce over the congee to enhance its flavor.
- Chili Oil: Add some chili oil to the congee for a spicy kick.
- Pickled Vegetables: Serve the congee with pickled vegetables on the side for a tangy contrast.
- Fried Dough: Pair the congee with fried dough sticks (youtiao) for a satisfying crunch.
Health Benefits of Fish Congee.
- Carbohydrates: Fish congee is a great source of carbohydrates, which provide the body with energy.
- Protein: It is also low in fat and high in protein, making it a healthy and filling meal option.
- Vitamins and minerals: Fish congee is rich in vitamins and minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and zinc.
- Easy to digest: Congee is easy to digest, making it a great food for people who are recovering from an illness or surgery.
- Improves cognitive function: Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve cognitive function.
- Relieves joint pain: The anti-inflammatory properties of fish can help relieve joint pain.
- Protects against certain types of cancer: Some studies have shown that consuming fish can help protect against certain types of cancer.
The Key Takeaway.
Fish congee is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for any meal of the day. It is a universal dish that can be served in many ways, and it pairs well with so many other foods. Fish congee is also a great source of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a healthy and filling meal option.
FAQs on Fish Congee.
What kind of fish is best to put into congee?
White fish is best for congee. They’re low on oil, so they are much less likely to impart a fishy grease smell to your congee, the way salmon or mackerel will. Also, the flesh is flaky and tender, while still firm enough to keep its shape in the congee.
What type of rice should I use to make fish congee?
Short grain rice is the best type of rice for fish congee because it releases more starch, which makes the congee silky and creamy. If you do not have short grain rice, medium grain rice is okay, but avoid long grain rice.
How do I make fish congee?
Making fish congee is super easy with an Instant Pot or pressure cooker. Marinate the fish, add the rice, broth, and ginger to an Instant Pot, cook for 15 minutes, turn on the saute function and cook the fish, and finish up with green onion and sesame oil. You can use your stovetop instead of the Instant Pot, but it will take longer. If you use the stovetop, you may require a bit more broth or water as the liquid evaporates during the cooking process.
What are some serving suggestions for fish congee?
Fish congee is a versatile dish that can be served in many ways. You can top the congee with chopped scallions, cilantro, and fried shallots for added flavor and texture. Drizzle some soy sauce over the congee to enhance its flavor. Add some chili oil to the congee for a spicy kick. Serve the congee with pickled vegetables on the side for a tangy contrast. Pair the congee with fried dough sticks (youtiao) for a satisfying crunch.
What are the health benefits of fish congee?
Fish congee is a great source of carbohydrates, protein, vitamins, and minerals, such as iron, magnesium, and zinc. Congee is easy to digest, making it a great food for people who are recovering from an illness or surgery. Fish is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve cognitive function. The anti-inflammatory properties of fish can help relieve joint pain. Some studies have shown that consuming fish can help protect against certain types of cancer.
