Congee (AKA jook) is an iconic rice porridge that is beloved across Asia, certainly in Chinese households like mine, where it was the go-to cure for everything from cold winter days to bouts of flu, nausea and literally any ailment.

At its core, congee consists only of rice and water, making it the easiest, most budget-friendly, yet versatile meal. Add on the magic of an Instant Pot, and the process really couldn’t be quicker.

Honestly, this Instant Pot Congee recipe is so simple, I feel almost ridiculous typing it out…

But hey, if you’re looking for a quick and comforting meal that takes virtually no effort, then you’re in the right place.

So, keep scrolling for our foolproof instant pot congee recipe. You’ll be jook by how easy it is.

The Secret to Perfect Congee

You see, the search for the world’s best congee recipe is almost like trying to find the world’s best toast. There really is no objectively “best” congee out there – it comes down to your personal preferences as far as texture, flavors, mouthfeel, etc. go.

Just as some people prefer their toast with butter and others with jam, some prefer their congee with chicken, and others with…. translucent amber eggs.

So really, the true secret to making perfect congee is practice and figuring out what you like best.

Overwhelmed by the prospect of figuring out the perfect congee for yourself? Papa G’s instant pot congee is a great blank canvas and starting point.

Fun fact: In Chinese, this recipe would be referred to as “bak jook”, or “white congee”, meaning plain congee with no add-ons.

Ingredients & Toppings to Add to Your Congee

As you’ll soon see in the congee recipe below, a basic congee on its own doesn’t have a very bold flavor profile.

… There’s a reason it’s a go-to “sick day” food in Chinese households.

The truth is, congee without any additions is bland, which is why it’s very important to add flavor via toppings and additional ingredients… or (depending on your taste) using a flavored broth instead of just regular water.

Since pretty much every Asian culture has its own variation of congee, and there’s tremendous variety within China itself as to what toppings are common, you’re really spoiled for choice as to what you can add.

Here are some common congee additions…

Vegan and Vegetarian Friendly Congee Additions

• Green onion/scallion (a must!)
• Deep fried shallots or onions
• Cilantro
• Mushrooms
• Toasted sesame oil
• Ginger
• Chopped Peanuts
• Pickled vegetables
• Bamboo shoots
• Sesame seeds
• Chili oil 

Other Congee Additions/Toppings

• Century egg
• Pork floss
• Dried shrimp 
• Chicken
• Duck
• Pork 
• Fish

NOTE: If you live somewhere with easy access to Chinese bakery goods like You Tiao (AKA Chinese Donuts), then they make an amazing match with congee!

Ingredients for Our Instant Pot Congee Recipe

• 100g rice
• 8 cups (2L) water (or broth)
• Salt (to taste)
• White pepper (to taste)
• Scallions, chopped (to top)

Step by Step Instructions for Our Instant Pot Congee Recipe

Instant Pot Congee is the easiest dish to whip together for a satisfying dinner. Here are the step by step instructions!

Wash your rice, then add it into your instant pot along with your water or broth.

Close the lid and seal.

Hit the “Porridge” button on your Instant pot and cook for ten minutes.

When your ten minutes is up, whisk your congee mixture, season to taste, and serve with chopped green onions and your other toppings of choice.

… Told you it was easy.

We Hope You Enjoy Our Instant Pot Congee Recipe!

Let us know in the comments if you have any questions, or be sure to let us know if you’ve tested the recipe out. We’re always looking to improve our recipes and make sure they taste great for everyone.