Shiitake Mushroom Congee

Shiitake Mushroom Congee is a comforting, savory rice porridge originating from Chinese cuisine, where rice is slowly simmered until it breaks down into a creamy, silky texture. The dish typically features dried or fresh shiitake mushrooms, which impart a deep, umami-rich flavor, and is often seasoned with ginger, scallions, and a touch of sesame oil. It's a staple breakfast or restorative meal, valued for its gentle, easy-to-digest nature.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This dish is primarily a source of complex carbohydrates from the rice, with moderate protein and very low fat, especially if prepared without added oils. It provides key nutrients like B vitamins, selenium, and antioxidants from the shiitake mushrooms, which are also a good source of dietary fiber. A typical serving (about 1.5 cups) contains roughly 150-200 calories, making it a light yet nourishing option.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	150 kcal
Protein	4 g
Carbs	30 g
Fat	1.5 g
Fiber	2 g
Sugar	1 g
Sodium	400 mg
Potassium	200 mg
Phosphorus	80 mg
Magnesium	25 mg
Selenium	10 mcg
Niacin (B3)	3 mg
Riboflavin (B2)	0.2 mg
Copper	0.3 mg
Zinc	1.0 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, congee is deeply rooted in Chinese food therapy, often served to the sick or elderly as a gentle, healing food that's believed to aid digestion and boost qi. Nutritionally, shiitake mushrooms stand out for containing unique compounds like lentinan, which are studied for their immune-supporting properties, making this congee both a comfort food and a functional one.