Korean Ginseng Rice Porridge

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) brown rice 1 cup (200g) brown rice
• 4 cups (950ml) water 4 cups (950ml) water
• 1 tablespoon ginseng powder 1 tablespoon ginseng powder
• 1 small piece of fresh ginseng root, thinly sliced 1 small piece of fresh ginseng root, thinly sliced
• 1 teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon salt
• Toppings: jujube dates, pine nuts, sesame seeds (optional) Toppings: jujube dates, pine nuts, sesame seeds (optional)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 1g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 39g, 1g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Rinse the brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. 2.
   In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice, water, ginseng powder, and fresh ginseng root.
3. 3.
   Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. 4.
   As the rice cooks, it will absorb the water and become soft. Use a wooden spoon to stir and break down the rice grains, creating a creamy consistency.
5. 5.
   Add salt to taste and continue cooking for an additional 5 minutes.
6. 6.
   Remove the pot from heat and let the porridge cool slightly.
7. 7.
   Serve the Ginseng Rice Porridge hot, garnished with jujube dates, pine nuts, and sesame seeds if desired.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Brown rice — Rinse the brown rice thoroughly to remove any excess starch before cooking.
• Ginseng powder — Use high-quality ginseng powder for the best flavor and health benefits.
• Fresh ginseng root — If fresh ginseng root is not available, you can increase the amount of ginseng powder to enhance the flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the cooked porridge using an immersion blender or a regular blender before serving.
• Customize the toppings based on your preference. Other popular choices include chopped scallions, seaweed flakes, or a drizzle of sesame oil.
• Leftover porridge can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to adjust the consistency if needed.

Serving advice

Serve the Ginseng Rice Porridge hot in individual bowls. It can be enjoyed as a standalone meal or accompanied by side dishes and condiments.

Presentation advice

Garnish the porridge with a sprinkle of sesame seeds, a few pine nuts, and a jujube date on top. The vibrant colors and contrasting textures will make the dish visually appealing.