Congee is one of those cozy, go-to breakfast bowls that can instantly warm you up and start your day off right. It’s also super versatile and can cater to your tastes, whether you like savory or sweet.
And if congee or porridge hasn’t made its way to your breakfast routine yet, I’m about to hook you up with 76 awesome recipes!
1. Brown Rice Congee
While white rice congee gives you a silkier texture, brown rice congee brings a subtle nutty flavor to the table. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with heartier veggies and ground beef.
Give this recipe a try: click here.
2. Fish Congee
Warm up your soul with the smooth, comforting texture of Chinese fish congee. Topped with tender fish slices, it’s the ideal dish to bring extra heartiness to your dinner table.
For the full recipe, click here.
3. Mushroom Congee
Mushroom congee is a delicious vegetarian option, but feel free to customize it with shredded chicken, pork, or century egg.
And here’s a little secret to save over 30 minutes of cooking: blend the rice! It gives the congee that smooth texture you’d usually spend hours on, all in a fraction of the time.
So, if you’re ready to get started, click here.
4. Veggie Congee
Congee traditionally has a bit of meat, like sliced pork or shredded chicken, but it’s super easy to make vegetarian. Simply use veggie stock, then top it with a variety of sautéed vegetables for extra flavor.
How simple is that? Click here.
5. Postpartum Congee
According to Chinese medicine, rice congee is easy on the stomach, making it perfect for postpartum recovery.
Simple ingredients like rice, water, and a hint of ginger provide essential nutrients and energy to help new moms heal.
If you’re on your postpartum journey, this one’s for you: click here.
6. Vegan Congee
For this vegan congee, you’ll need shiitake mushrooms, lemongrass, ginger, and vegetable broth as the base flavors. But if you want to take it further, add sauces and toppings for extra taste and texture.
Save this for later: click here.
7. Sweet Congee
Congee doesn’t always have to be savory — this sweet rice porridge is made with creamy coconut milk, a bit of butter, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for the ultimate sweet comfort!
You’re in for a treat, so click here.
8. Rice Cooker Congee
Rice cooker congee is ideal for breakfast or as a comforting bowl for a sick loved one. With its light, balanced flavor, it’ll have them feeling better in no time.
This is one of those hands-off recipes you’ll want to try, so click here.
9. Instapot Congee
Congee typically takes a while to simmer, but with the Instant Pot, you can whip it up in as little as 1 hour! After that, you can enjoy a warm and comforting dish garnished with your favorite toppings.
Ready to get started? Click here.
10. Korean Congee
Juk is a comforting Korean rice porridge that comes in various textures, from whole grains to ground rice. And it can be topped with anything from chicken and beef to abalone, nuts, and pumpkin.
If you need a pick-me-up, this one’s for you: click here.
11. Eight Treasure Congee
Traditionally served during Chinese festivals, this dish features whole grains, nuts, and dried fruits. It’s easy to make and can be enjoyed as a savory side or a guilt-free sweet dessert.
Don’t miss out on this recipe, and click here.
12. Pumpkin Congee
This quick and comforting pumpkin congee is made with just 6 simple ingredients: pumpkin (of course), garlic, shallots, white rice (or basmati rice), sticky rice, and seasoning.
It’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly evening! Click here.
13. Congee Crockpot
The key to a great slow cooker congee? First, use aromatics like ginger and garlic to add flavor to the rice. Then, go wild with your add-ins and toppings for extra deliciousness!
For the full step-by-step guide, click here.
14. Chicken Congee
This savory chicken congee with scallions and ginger is the perfect soul-warming dish! It’s a quick and easy comfort meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes!
Want to learn more about this dish? Click here.
15. Filipino Congee
Arroz caldo is a Filipino rice porridge made by simmering rice and chicken until tender. Packed with onions, ginger, saffron, black pepper, and fish sauce, this hearty dish often stands as a complete meal on its own.
Try it out! Click here.
16. Millet Congee
Millet congee (xiao mi zhou) is a popular Chinese breakfast dish, often paired with fermented tofu or salted pickled vegetables. It’s a simple and nutritious way to start the day!
Make this for your next breakfast: click here.
17. Chinese Congee
In Chinese cooking, congee is made by boiling rice with varying amounts of water. This recipe uses short-grain white rice and a 1:12 ratio of rice to water to create a thick, creamy porridge.
Once cooked, it becomes the perfect base for an array of toppings like spring onions, crispy fried onions, or a dash of soy sauce.
Start with the basics, and click here.
18. Miso Congee
This congee recipe is easy to make with just a few basic ingredients: jasmine rice, white miso paste, soy sauce, assorted frozen veggies, veggie or chicken stock, soft-boiled eggs, and chili oil.
If you love umami flavors, you’ll love this one: click here.
19. Pork Congee
This Chinese ground pork congee is far better than anything you’ll find at a restaurant! But take note: making this takes time and care, as you want the grains to fully break down and achieve that rich, creamy texture.
If you’re ready to take your congee to the next level, click here.
20. Ginger Chicken Congee
This is my go-to when I’m feeling under the weather or just a bit off. It’s as comforting as curling up in a fuzzy blanket, warming you from the inside out and making you feel completely cozy.
For days when you need to be cared for, click here.
21. Oat Congee
This Oatmeal Congee is packed with delicious toppings like cooked chicken, crispy youtiao (Chinese cruller), fried garlic, sriracha, and more!
Feel free to add in soft-boiled eggs, cracklings, pork belly, and a touch of garlic chili paste to make the bowl fit your personal taste.
It doesn’t get easier than this: click here.
22. Vietnamese Congee
Vietnamese cháo gà is a flavorful take on chicken rice porridge that’s both budget-friendly and hearty enough to feed a crowd.
At its core, this comforting dish combines chicken, rice, onion, and ginger, but you can easily customize it with various toppings to add extra flavor and texture.
Want to give it a try? Click here.
23. Shrimp Congee
This creamy shrimp congee is delicately sweet and full of rich flavors, making it the perfect comfort dish for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Plus, it’s quick and easy to prepare, so click here.
24. Thai Congee
The highlight of this Thai congee recipe has to be the homemade Thai pork meatballs. Simmered to perfection, they’re incredibly tender and absolutely irresistible.
Add this to your menu, and click here.
25. Beef Congee
You can certainly add your favorite toppings, but honestly, keeping it simple lets the beef take center stage. Overall, this dish has juicy, flavorful bites with just the right texture.
For the full recipe breakdown, click here.
26. Pork and Century Egg Congee
Get ready for the creamiest century egg and pork congee you’ve ever had! It’s slow-cooked to silky perfection, with spare ribs that practically fall off the bone. Once you taste it, you’ll be hooked!
You’re going to make this on repeat, so click here.
27. Rotisserie Chicken Congee
This recipe makes the most of every part of your rotisserie chicken — bones, leftover meat, juices, and skin — all of which help add depth and flavor to the congee.
With the addition of ginger, scallions, and shallots, it transforms into a savory, aromatic bowl that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Try it for yourself: click here.
28. Black Rice Congee
Inspired by Thailand’s black sticky rice pudding, this congee recipe features coconut cream, granulated sugar (or palm sugar), a pinch of salt (to balance out the flavors), and an assortment of fruits.
It’s a sweet breakfast option to brighten your day: click here.
29. Century Egg Congee
Century egg might be an acquired taste, but it’s worth trying at least once. This preserved duck egg brings a strong, distinct aroma that’s both complex and pungent.
But when added to your regular congee, it instantly elevates the dish with a burst of flavor and creamy texture.
Ready to take on the adventurous route? Click here.
30. Seafood Congee
Seafood congee, or tang jai jook (sampan jook), is a flavorful and textured dish that’s easy to make yet packed with taste.
With pork, calamari, and a variety of fun toppings, this simple recipe transforms into a satisfying meal with layers of deliciousness.
Want to give this a try? Click here.
31. Turkey Congee
This simple one-pot breakfast or brunch recipe is the ideal way to repurpose your leftover Thanksgiving turkey and extend holiday vibes even further.
Check out the full details: click here.
32. Tofu Congee
This vegan recipe is topped with sliced silken tofu, and a whole variety of delicious ingredients, like shiitake mushrooms, garlic, green onions, chili oil, and fried dough.
This is a delicious Asian delicacy worth trying, so click here.
33. Banana Porridge
Rice flakes are a light, gluten-free option that’s easy on the stomach and cooked in just 5 to 10 minutes. Their subtle flavor makes them a great base for mixing fruits, nuts, seeds, or other grains.
In this case, we’re adding chopped banana because it adds a hint of sweetness and offers an energizing start to your day!
Want to try this out? Click here.
34. Sago Porridge
This Indian dessert is made with jasmine rice, sago, milk, and sugar, creating a creamy and satisfying treat that’s perfect all year round!
Add this to your recipe book: click here.
35. Instant Pot Quinoa Porridge
This soaked Instant Pot quinoa porridge is a simple, gluten-free, dairy-free option made with just 4 ingredients: quinoa, apple cider vinegar, coconut milk, and maple syrup.
From there, you can customize your toppings and add a selection of nuts, seeds, chocolate chips, or raisins to brighten up the flavor and make it more exciting to your palette.
Ready to get started? Click here.
36. Cornmeal Porridge
Infused with the flavors of nutmeg, vanilla, bay leaf, coconut, brown sugar, and condensed milk, this creamy Jamaican cornmeal porridge is hard to resist.
Try it for yourself: click here.
37. Indian Porridge
Yavagu, an ancient Indian rice porridge that’s been around for more than 2,000 years, is traditionally made with red rice due to the added health benefits. But it works just as well with any variety.
Curious to know how this tastes? Click here.
38. Wheat Berry Porridge
Check out this vegan wheat berry porridge! It makes for a nourishing breakfast, featuring creamy hot cereal topped with a quick and zesty 3-minute gingered blueberry sauce.
This is one recipe you don’t want to pass up: click here.
39. Blueberry Porridge
Brown rice porridge might not sound quite as appetizing, but wait until you try this recipe. It’s topped with figs, blueberries, and pistachios that take the flavor profile to a whole new level!
Perfect for when you want something a little different: click here.
40. Cauliflower Porridge
Grain-free and dairy-free cauliflower porridge is a wholesome way to kickstart your morning. It’s also vegan, paleo-friendly, Whole30, and entirely plant-based while giving you lots of nutrients and flavor!
To learn the step-by-step process, click here.
41. Apple and Cinnamon Porridge
Try this rice porridge breakfast — it’s warm, healthy, and absolutely delicious! Plus, it’s dairy-free, gluten-free, an excellent way to repurpose leftover rice, and made with just 4 pantry staples.
So, grab your rice, tahini, apple, and cinnamon, then click here.
42. Amaranth Porridge
If you haven’t heard of amaranth before, it’s basically a nutrient-packed seed that makes for a hearty and tasty porridge. Plus, it has a naturally thick texture that works fantastic as an alternative to oatmeal or rice.
Interested in giving this a try? Click here.
43. Porridge With Strawberries
Start your day with this wholesome strawberry porridge — a gluten-free twist on strawberries and cream. It’s quick, decadent, and packed with fruity goodness!
It’s a one-pan meal that you can make in minutes, so click here.
44. Corn Porridge
Make the most of late summer’s and early fall’s bounty by stirring sweet corn kernels into your bowl of rice porridge. The result? A warm, comforting dish that features a depth of flavor and texture.
For the full recipe breakdown, click here.
45. Abalone Porridge
Jeju Island is known for its abundance of fresh abalone (also known as jeonbok), making this type of porridge one of its most iconic and cherished local dishes.
Check this recipe out: click here.
46. Yam Porridge
Here’s a little fun fact: Asaro, also known as yam porridge, is a popular delicacy across Nigeria, particularly among the Yoruba people. It’s a savory dish that’s perfect for yam lovers out there!
So, if you haven’t tried this yet, now’s your chance: click here.
47. African Porridge
This dish called “rice water” is a breakfast staple in Ghana. Made by boiling rice in water until it softens into a porridge-like consistency, it develops a slightly smoky flavor when cooked over an open wood fire.
Ready to make this at home? Click here.
48. Barley Porridge
This is a hearty and budget-friendly barley and white bean porridge that’s cooked low and slow to achieve a creamy texture. Top it with roasted broccoli, garlic, pickled onions, and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.
You’re going to love this recipe, so click here.
49. Nut Porridge
Creamy, mild, and naturally satisfying, this pine nut porridge is a simple and nutritious dish that’s packed with protein, iron, and magnesium, offering a healthy energy boost to start your day right!
If you’re ready to make this easy, wholesome breakfast, click here.
50. Chocolate Protein Porridge
Looking to amp your protein intake without sacrificing taste? You’ve come to the right place! This recipe includes brown rice, coconut milk, cacao powder, protein powder, and instant coffee for that extra boost!
Garnish with maple syrup, berries, or nuts, and you’re done, so click here.
51. Chai Porridge
This cozy bowl blends the aromatic flavors of chai tea with creamy rice and milk. Topped with a drizzle of pomegranate molasses and fresh pear (or apple), it’s the perfect balance of zest and comfort.
Overall, it’s easy to make, incredibly soothing, and full of flavor: click here.
52. Bulgur Wheat Porridge
Bulgur wheat — a whole grain commonly used in Haitian cuisine — is a versatile staple. It’s often swapped in for rice in various meals or prepared as a comforting porridge.
For the full recipe, click here.
53. Fig Porridge
With the natural sweetness of dried figs and the warmth of cinnamon, this porridge is perfect if you want to feel a little bit cozy on a chilly morning.
It combines rice flakes, milk, pear, honey, and a hint of vanilla to create a creamy dish that’s topped with soft, flavorful fruits.
You’ll love how easy and heartwarming this is: click here.
54. Lao Rice Porridge
Compared to other porridges, this recipe stands out primarily because of its unique blend of sticky rice and jasmine rice, giving it a rich, thick texture.
Also, the addition of homemade pork meatballs and toppings like cilantro, green onion, poached egg, chili oil, and peppers brings bold flavors and extra depth to the dish.
Don’t miss out on this recipe, and click here.
55. Grain-Free Porridge
This grain-free, paleo, and vegan breakfast porridge is packed with healthy Omega-3 and Omega-6 fats, along with plenty of fiber, antioxidants, and essential minerals.
This is an amazing porridge recipe: click here.
56. Danish Porridge
In Denmark, rice porridge is a traditional dish served for dinner on December 23rd, known as Lillejuleaften (or little Christmas Eve). But, you’re free to make it any time of the year!
Prepare this festive dish at home: click here.
57. Scottish Porridge
Scottish porridge has come a long way from its humble roots of just water and salt. Today, it’s fully customizable to suit your taste—whether you prefer it thick and sweet or savory with a pinch of salt.
The texture can also vary based on the oats and cooking method, making it a versatile breakfast for all!
But, if you want to keep it traditional, click here.
58. Red Lentil Porridge
This comforting bowl of tender lentils and fragrant basmati rice is packed with soul-warming spices like turmeric and cumin. It’s the perfect blend of light and satisfying, offering both flavor and feel-good vibes.
Add this to your rotation: click here.
59. Buckwheat Porridge
Kick off your morning with this simple buckwheat porridge. It’s a gluten-free breakfast that’s not only delicious but also loaded with zinc, copper, and manganese.
Plus, it’s a complete protein, making it a nourishing way to fuel your day. So, click here!
60. Air Fryer Porridge
With the help of your handy-dandy air fryer, you can make perfectly cooked porridge in no time, thereby making your morning routine an absolute breeze.
Ready to try out this method? Click here.
61. Slippery Elm Porridge
Slippery Elm’s natural mucilage helps soothe everything from your throat to your stomach and even your gut. Plus, it’s loaded with antioxidants, which help calm digestive issues and keep things running smoothly.
So, if you want to improve your gut health, this one’s for you: click here.
62. Weetabix Porridge
Want to give your breakfast porridge a fun and tasty upgrade that even kids will love? Mix in some Weetabix, chia seeds, and a handful of juicy blueberries for a wholesome, crowd-pleasing start to the day!
This recipe’s pretty simple, yet totally amazing, so click here.
63. English Porridge
In true English fashion, we’re taking tea beyond the cup and into breakfast porridge! Paired with coconut milk, dried dates, goji berries, and pistachios, this bowl is a delightful way to kick off the day.
Interested in giving this a try? Click here.
64. Peas Porridge
Peas in porridge? It might sound unexpected, but trust me, this combo works wonders! Blended with chicken stock, Parmigiano Reggiano, and a splash of heavy cream, it’s a rich, comforting dish you’ll want to try.
Add this to your recipe book: click here.
65. Kanji Rice Porridge
Kanji is a staple in every Malayali’s diet. It’s light, nourishing, and perfect for when you need an energy boost. Don’t forget to pair it with stir-fried red beans and a touch of coconut for the ultimate combo!
You have to give this a try and click here.
66. Russian Porridge
Fun fact: In Russia, porridge is called “kasha,” which traditionally refers to buckwheat groats. The great thing is, you can swap it out for any grain you prefer — rice, barley, or oats all work beautifully!
Want to make this at home? Click here.
67. Porridge Cookies
If you’ve got any leftover porridge just lying around, don’t toss it away! Instead, turn it into tasty cookies for an easy grab-and-go breakfast for the next morning!
Not only is it convenient, it’s pretty creative, too: click here.
68. Biscoff Porridge
Need a quick, sweet breakfast to satisfy your cravings? This Biscoff rice porridge is just what you’re looking for! Made with only 3 ingredients, it’s easy to whip up and totally customizable!
Besides your base of Biscoff spread, rice flakes, and milk, you can top it off with your favorites, like chopped nuts, crushed cookies, or fresh fruits! The choice is in your hands.
For a sweet breakfast treat, click here.
69. Honey Porridge
Yes, sugar and condensed milk are the typical ingredients used to sweeten rice porridge, but you’re more than welcome to use other ingredients, like honey!
I find that this natural sweetener adds a subtle complexity to the flavor of the dish, balances out the blandness of the rice, and provides a slightly sticky texture.
For the complete recipe breakdown, click here.
70. Korean Red Bean Porridge
In Korea, red bean porridge comes in two varieties: savory and sweet. The first version, patjuk, includes soaked short-grain rice and is traditionally enjoyed as a full meal.
The second, danpatjuk, is smooth and grain-free. It’s usually eaten as a snack or a dessert.
To make this at home, click here.
71. Chia Seed Porridge
When you soak chia seeds you allow them to absorb up to 8 times their weight in water. And as a result, they become an excellent source of hydration.
They’re also loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants, making them a powerhouse addition to your meals.
Ready to get started? Click here.
72. Kamut Porridge
Kamut, also known as Khorasan wheat, brings a nutty flavor and a hearty dose of nutrients to your breakfast table.
Packed with fiber, magnesium, selenium, and zinc, Kamut porridge is a deliciously satisfying way to start your day.
Be sure to add this to your rotation: click here.
73. Almond Porridge
For this recipe, we’re not just using almond milk — we’re going all in to highlight the nutty flavor with almond yogurt, almond butter, and chopped almonds.
Don’t miss out on this recipe: click here.
74. Cambodian Porridge
This dish is super earthy and filling. You can use any cut of poultry or pork you like, but I prefer using leftover chicken for this recipe.
For the soup base, no need to get fancy — just chicken broth, lemongrass, kaffir lime leaves, ginger or galangal, and garlic will do the trick!
Interested in giving this a try? Click here.
75. Finnish Porridge
Much like Swedish rice porridge and other Scandinavian versions, Finnish rice porridge is a creamy, milk-based dish made with starchy short-grain rice, often topped with cinnamon or served with mixed fruits.
You can bake it in the oven or cook it on the stovetop, so click here.
76. Carrot Porridge
This breakfast fusion of Chinese congee and Indian carrot pudding is a sweet-savory porridge that’ll shake up your usual morning routine.
It’s the perfect blend of comforting flavors, so click here!
Start Your Day With a Bowl of Congee!
Best believe that with 76 congee and porridge recipes to choose from, you’ll never run out of delicious ways to kickstart your morning.
Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet or savory, there’s a perfect bowl waiting to fuel your day!
Featured image credit to @roamography.
