Chinese Seafood Congee with shrimp is a delightful dish that warms the heart and soul, especially on chilly nights. This comforting and creamy rice porridge, infused with the rich flavors of the sea, is a staple in many Chinese households. The combination of shrimp, ginger, and scallions creates a symphony of taste and aroma that beckons you to the table. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just in need of a cozy meal, this congee is sure to satisfy and nourish.

Why You’ll Love This Chinese Seafood Congee with
This Chinese Seafood Congee with shrimp is not just a dish; it’s an experience. Here are a few reasons why you’ll adore it:
- **Comfort Food:** This dish is perfect for cold nights, providing warmth and solace.
- **Nutritional Value:** Packed with protein from shrimp and essential vitamins from ginger and scallions.
- **Easy to Make:** Following our step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to make Chinese seafood congee effortlessly.
- **Versatile:** You can customize it with your favorite seafood or additional toppings.
- **Cultural Delight:** Experience a taste of traditional Chinese cuisine right at home.
- **Quick Cooking:** With our quick seafood congee cooking tips, you can have dinner ready in no time.
Ingredients for Chinese Seafood Congee with
Gather these items:
- 1 cup White Rice (Short-grain rice is best for creamy texture.)
- 6 cups Water or Stock (Chicken or seafood stock enhances flavor.)
- 1 pound Fresh Shrimp/Prawns (Shells should be saved for stock.)
- 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (For marinating shrimp.)
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine (Dry sherry can be used as a substitute.)
- 1 ounce Dried Scallops (Conpoy) (Must be soaked before use.)
- 1 inch Ginger (Wash, no need to peel.)
- 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce (Can substitute with salt.)
- 4 pieces Honey Dates (White sugar can be used if needed.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon White Pepper
- 2 stalks Spring Onions (Slice thinly.)
- 1 tablespoon Extra Sesame Oil (A drizzle for aroma.)
How to Make Chinese Seafood Congee with Step-by-Step
- Step 1: Begin by shelling the fresh shrimp, saving the shells for your stock later. Marinate the shrimp with sesame oil and Shaoxing wine to enhance the flavor.
- Step 2: In a pot, sauté the shrimp shells with ginger until fragrant, then add water or stock. Let it simmer for 15-30 minutes, straining the shells afterward for a rich base.
- Step 3: In a separate pot, bring the filtered stock to a gentle boil. Stir in the rinsed white rice, reduce heat to medium-low, and let it simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Step 4: Once the rice reaches a creamy texture (around 45 minutes), gently fold in the marinated shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turn bright pink and tender.
- Step 5: Ladle the silky congee into bowls, garnish with thinly sliced ginger, spring onions, and an extra drizzle of sesame oil for an aromatic finish.
Pro Tips for the Best Chinese Seafood Congee with
Keep these in mind:
- Use short-grain rice for a creamier texture.
- Saving shrimp shells is crucial for building a flavorful stock.
- Experiment with different seafood to find your favorite combination.
- For added depth, consider including mushrooms or other vegetables.
Best Ways to Serve Chinese Seafood Congee with
When it comes to serving this dish, consider these ideas:
- Top with fried shallots for a crunchy texture.
- Serve with a side of pickled vegetables for a tangy contrast.
- Pair it with soy sauce or chili oil for an extra kick.
How to Store and Reheat Chinese Seafood Congee with
To store, let the congee cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of water or stock to restore its creamy consistency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Chinese Seafood Congee with
What’s the secret to perfect Chinese Seafood Congee with?
The secret lies in the quality of your stock and patience in cooking the rice. Slow cooking allows the rice to release its starch, creating a creamy texture that defines classic Chinese seafood porridge.
Can I make Chinese Seafood Congee with ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the congee a day in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat it when needed. Add extra liquid while reheating to regain its creamy texture.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Chinese Seafood Congee with?
To avoid lumps, stir the rice frequently as it cooks. Using the right amount of liquid is key to achieving that smooth, porridge-like consistency.
Variations of Chinese Seafood Congee with You Can Try
There are many delicious variations to explore:
- Add fish fillets for a heartier dish.
- Use different seafood like clams or squid for a mixed seafood congee.
- Incorporate vegetables like spinach or bok choy for added nutrition.
For more delicious recipes, check out our Creamy Tuscan Scallops or Shrimp Alfredo. If you’re interested in more Asian-inspired dishes, you might enjoy our Thai Basil Beef Rolls as well.
For additional information on the health benefits of seafood, visit Healthline.
Print
Chinese Seafood Congee with Shrimp for Cozy Nights
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A comforting and creamy Chinese seafood congee with shrimp, perfect for chilly nights.
Ingredients
- 1 cup White Rice (Short-grain rice is best for creamy texture.)
- 6 cups Water or Stock (Chicken or seafood stock enhances flavor.)
- 1 pound Fresh Shrimp/Prawns (Shells should be saved for stock.)
- 2 tablespoons Sesame Oil (For marinating shrimp.)
- 2 tablespoons Shaoxing Wine (Dry sherry can be used as a substitute.)
- 1 ounce Dried Scallops (Conpoy) (Must be soaked before use.)
- 1 inch Ginger (Wash, no need to peel.)
- 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce (Can substitute with salt.)
- 4 pieces Honey Dates (White sugar can be used if needed.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon White Pepper
- 2 stalks Spring Onions (Slice thinly.)
- 1 tablespoon Extra Sesame Oil (A drizzle for aroma.)
Instructions
- Begin by shelling the fresh shrimp, saving the shells for your stock later. Marinate the shrimp with sesame oil and Shaoxing wine to enhance the flavor.
- In a pot, sauté the shrimp shells with ginger until fragrant, then add water or stock. Let it simmer for 15-30 minutes, straining the shells afterward for a rich base.
- In a separate pot, bring the filtered stock to a gentle boil. Stir in the rinsed white rice, reduce heat to medium-low, and let it simmer, stirring occasionally.
- Once the rice reaches a creamy texture (around 45 minutes), gently fold in the marinated shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turn bright pink and tender.
- Ladle the silky congee into bowls, garnish with thinly sliced ginger, spring onions, and an extra drizzle of sesame oil for an aromatic finish.
Notes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 800 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 50 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 20 g
- Cholesterol: 150 mg