Mushroom Congee is a warm, nourishing dish that’s packed with umami flavors from mushrooms and a touch of sesame oil. It’s a comforting and easy-to-make meal perfect for any time of the day—whether you’re enjoying it as a cozy breakfast, a light dinner, or a satisfying snack. This vegan recipe is low in calories but full of flavor and is guaranteed to leave you feeling satisfied and comforted.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mushroom Congee offers a simple, yet deeply satisfying way to enjoy a plant-based meal. The creamy texture of the rice, combined with the earthy flavor of mushrooms, creates a dish that is both comforting and hearty. The addition of sesame oil adds a rich depth of flavor, while the green onions and cilantro provide a refreshing balance. Plus, it’s easy to make and packed with nourishing ingredients, making it a great option for any time you’re craving something wholesome and delicious. Mushroom Congee

Ingredients

2-3 cups mushrooms (shiitake, crimini, or shimeji)
1 tsp white pepper
2 cups cooked rice
5 cups mushroom stock or vegetable stock
2-inch piece ginger, sliced into thin pieces
1 stalk green onion, chopped
2.5 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp sesame oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Rice Mixture:

In a blender, add 1.5 cups of cooked rice and 5 cups of vegetable or mushroom stock. Blend for 30 seconds or until smooth.

Sauté the Mushrooms:

In a pot, add the mushrooms, ginger, and the white parts of the green onion. Season with 1.5 tbsp of soy sauce.
Sauté the mixture for 2-3 minutes, or until the mushrooms are fragrant and starting to soften.

(Optional) Garnish:

Remove half of the sautéed mushrooms to use as a garnish for later.

Add Rice and Cook:

Add the remaining 0.5 cups of cooked rice to the pot and sauté for another 1-2 minutes.
Pour in the blended rice mixture and stir. Season with white pepper and the remaining soy sauce. Let it cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Final Touches:

Drizzle with sesame oil and garnish with fresh cilantro and the remaining green onion.

Serve:

Serve warm and enjoy this comforting, nourishing bowl of mushroom congee!

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

Other Mushrooms: Feel free to experiment with different mushrooms, such as maitake, enoki, or oyster mushrooms, to vary the flavor profile.
Spicy Kick: Add some chili flakes or a small diced chili to the sautéing mushrooms for an added heat element.
Add Vegetables: For more nutrition, you can add vegetables like spinach, bok choy, or carrots to the congee while it cooks.
Protein: Add some tofu or tempeh cubes to make this dish more filling and add extra protein.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Leftover congee can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply add a bit more vegetable stock or water to the congee to loosen it up and heat it on the stove until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I make this congee in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the congee in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld and deepen, making it even more delicious when reheated.

Can I use white rice instead of cooked rice?

Yes, you can use white rice, though the texture will differ slightly. The key is to have already-cooked rice for blending into a creamy mixture.

Can I use different types of stock?

Yes, you can substitute the vegetable or mushroom stock with other stocks such as chicken or beef stock for a different flavor, though it will no longer be vegan.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover congee in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You may need to add a bit of water or stock when reheating to achieve your preferred consistency.

Can I freeze mushroom congee?

While congee can be frozen, the texture of the rice may change slightly when thawed. If you want to freeze it, be sure to store it in an airtight container and consume it within 1-2 months. Reheat it gently with some added stock or water.

What other toppings can I add?

You can top the congee with roasted sesame seeds, crispy fried onions, or even a poached egg for added texture and flavor.

Can I add more heat to this dish?

If you prefer a spicier congee, try adding fresh chopped chili peppers, chili oil, or hot sauce to taste.

Conclusion

Mushroom Congee is a wholesome and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time you want something satisfying and nutritious. With its warm, umami-rich broth and creamy texture, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re looking for a light meal or a comforting snack, this congee offers a great way to enjoy mushrooms and nourishing ingredients in a simple, delicious way!

Emma

Mushroom Congee

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ingredients