Vegan Congee Recipe Easy, Healthy, and Delicious Ideas

Congee, a traditional Asian rice porridge, is a comforting, versatile dish perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving something warm and nourishing, this vegan congee recipe will become your go-to meal.

Made with simple ingredients, this creamy porridge offers a gentle balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal base for countless toppings and add-ins. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and packed with wholesome goodness that’s sure to satisfy both your taste buds and your soul.

What makes this vegan congee truly special is its adaptability. You can customize it to your liking by adding different vegetables, herbs, or plant-based proteins.

Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, catering to a wide range of dietary preferences. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned plant-based foodie, this recipe will delight you with its simplicity and depth of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan congee is more than just a porridge; it’s a soothing bowl of comfort with endless possibilities. Here’s why this recipe stands out:

• Easy to make: With minimal prep and common pantry ingredients, you can whip up this dish in under an hour.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies, tofu, or seasonings to create your perfect bowl.
• Highly nutritious: Rice provides energy, while added vegetables and broth supply vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Gentle on digestion: Perfect for anyone recovering from illness or looking for a light, soothing meal.
• Plant-based and allergy-friendly: No animal products or gluten, suitable for many dietary needs.

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine rice (or any white rice)
• 8 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and sliced thinly
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms (shiitake or cremini recommended)
• 1 cup shredded carrots
• 1 cup chopped bok choy or spinach
• 1/2 cup firm tofu, cubed (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
• 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish (optional)
• Sriracha or chili oil for serving (optional)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle for serving
• Bowl for soaking or rinsing rice (optional)

Instructions

1. Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a bowl and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve a smoother congee texture.
2. Prepare the aromatics: Peel and slice the ginger thinly, mince the garlic, and chop the vegetables as needed.
3. Start cooking the congee: In your large pot, heat the vegetable broth over medium-high heat. Add the rinsed rice, ginger slices, and minced garlic.
4. Simmer gently: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook for about 45-60 minutes, or until the rice breaks down and the congee achieves a creamy, porridge-like consistency.
5. Add vegetables and tofu: About 10 minutes before the congee is done, stir in the mushrooms, carrots, bok choy, and cubed tofu if using. Continue to cook until the vegetables soften.
6. Season the congee: Stir in the soy sauce and toasted sesame oil. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve: Ladle the congee into bowls and garnish with chopped green onions, fresh cilantro or parsley, and a drizzle of chili oil or sriracha if you like some heat.

Tips & Variations

For creamier congee, you can soak the rice for 30 minutes before cooking or use broken rice if available.

• Make it gluten-free: Use tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Add more protein: Swap tofu for tempeh or add cooked edamame beans.
• Experiment with toppings: Try roasted peanuts, pickled vegetables, or crispy shallots for extra texture.
• Spice it up: Add a dash of white pepper or fresh chili slices.
• Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients (except delicate veggies and garnishes) in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan congee is a wonderful base for a cozy meal and pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments.

• Serve with a side of steamed or sautéed greens such as kale or Swiss chard. For more inspiration, check out our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals.
• Top with crunchy fried shallots or garlic chips for texture contrast.
• Include a dipping sauce like a simple soy-ginger mix or chili oil to add bursts of flavor.
• Enjoy with a warm cup of green tea or a refreshing cucumber salad.
• If you love baking, try pairing this nourishing bowl with soft homemade bread — explore our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves for easy bread ideas.

Conclusion

Vegan congee is more than just a simple rice porridge; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for nourishing your body and soul. This recipe combines wholesome ingredients and straightforward preparation to create a dish that’s both comforting and customizable.

Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or an experienced plant-based chef, congee offers endless possibilities to experiment with flavors and textures.

By keeping the base simple and nutritious, this congee allows you to add your favorite vegetables, proteins, and seasonings to suit your mood and pantry. It’s ideal for chilly mornings, light dinners, or when you want something easy and satisfying.

Be sure to explore our other wholesome recipes like the Peruvian Vegetable Recipes for Flavorful Healthy Meals or the delightful Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious to continue your vegan culinary journey.

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