Best Easy Red Bean Congee Recipe

Soft red beans simmer with rice into a lightly sweet, creamy porridge enjoyed across China. This vegetarian family comfort food is a traditional breakfast rich in fiber and plant-based protein.

Cook 120 min Difficulty EASY 220 kcal
#vegetarian #fiber rich #traditional Chinese breakfast #plant based protein
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Ingredients
Main ingredients
  • Dried red beans (adzuki beans) 0.5 cup
  • White rice (short grain preferred) 0.75 cup
  • Water 7 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
  • Sugar 2 tbsp
  • Salt 0.25 tsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates 42 g 76%
Protein 7 g 13%
Fat 2.5 g 11%
Serving size 300g
Cooking steps
  1. 1

    Rinse and soak the dried red beans in water overnight for at least 8 hours to ensure even cooking and a creamy texture.

  2. 2

    Drain the soaked beans, add them to a large pot with 4 cups of water, and bring to a boil over medium heat. Reduce heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes until beans are tender but not falling apart.

  3. 3

    Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then add the rice and remaining 3 cups water to the pot with the beans.

  4. 4

    Bring the mixture back to a boil on high heat. Once boiling, reduce to low and cook uncovered for 50–60 minutes, stirring every 10–15 minutes to prevent sticking, until the congee is thick and creamy.

  5. 5

    Stir in sugar and salt while congee is hot. Taste and adjust sweetness to your preference. Serve hot, optionally garnished with extra sweetener or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds.

Personalized Q&A
Q. What's the key ingredient in this recipe?
The key ingredient in this congee is dried red beans, also known as adzuki beans. They lend the dish its natural sweetness, beautiful color, and creamy texture, making them essential for both flavor and nutritional benefits.
Q. How do I prevent the congee from sticking to the pot?
Gentle, regular stirring every 10–15 minutes over low heat prevents the rice and beans from sticking to the bottom. Ensuring enough water in the pot and maintaining a simmer rather than a boil are crucial for an evenly creamy result.
Q. What gives this red bean congee its creamy consistency?
Soaking the beans overnight softens them, and slow simmering allows both the rice and beans to break down and thicken the congee naturally, resulting in a soft, creamy porridge.
Q. How much protein and calories are in each serving?
Each 300g serving contains about 7g of protein and 220 kcal. Carbohydrates contribute approximately 76% of calories, protein about 13%, and fats 11%.
Q. Is this red bean congee vegetarian-friendly?
Yes, this recipe uses only plant-based ingredients such as red beans, rice, water, sugar, and a pinch of salt—making it fully vegetarian and suitable for a variety of diets.
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