皮蛋瘦肉粥 Instant Pot Salted Pork and Century Egg Congee Recipe is a traditional Chinese dish that comforting and perfect for breakfast! This rice porridge that has been enjoyed for centuries, is made with various ingredients, including pork, century eggs (thousand-year eggs), and various seasonings. It takes just 20 minutes to make this delicious dim sum restaurant quality favourite in the pressure cooker. Serve this Chinese fried dough and rice rolls for the ultimate comfort meal!
> In This Post: Everything You'll Need For Pressure Cooker Century Egg Pork Congee
Century eggs, also known as thousand-year eggs, are duck eggs preserved in a mixture of clay, ash, and quicklime for several weeks to several months. The process results in a distinctive flavor and texture, with the yolk turning a dark green or grey color and the white becoming translucent and jelly-like. Thousand-year egg are a common ingredient in many Chinese food dishes, and they are often used to add a unique flavor and creamy consistency texture to dishes like congee.
Lean pork slices are another key ingredient in Century Egg and Pork Congee. It is typically added as small pieces of boiled or marinated pork or a topping for the finished congee. The pork adds a savory flavor and protein to the dish, making it a satisfying and nourishing meal.
Jump to:
Check out this quick story summary of our recipe!
Ingredients and Substitutes
White Rice - The main ingredient in a pillowy soft, fluffy congee is long-grain Chinese rice grains like Jasmine rice. Opt for brown rice low carb substitute to lower glycemic index and to significantly reduce post-meal blood sugar levels. I don't prefer using short grain rice. Try this Asian Millet Porridge recipe.
Fresh water - filtered water is the best used to cook any rice porridge.
Century Eggs - sliced or diced century egg adds a nice umami, strong flavor to a delicious pot of savory congee.
Sesame Oil - A drizzle of sesame oil elevates a finished bowl of jook.
Green Onions - finely chopped green scallions are perfect for garnishing and adding flavour.
Cilantro - finely chopped cilantro is used both in the stir fry and as a garnish to add color and flavour.
Salt - add salt to taste to your personal preference.
Ground White Pepper - A secret ingredient that is much needed to liven the dish. Also, add ground white pepper to the marinating pork to reduce gaminess.
Lean pork - marinated sliced pork with salt, white pepper, Shaoxing rice wine, ginger slices and a little vegetable oil is the perfect pairing with chopped century eggs in a a bowl of hot congee. Opt for sinew free pork loin or pork shank.
Ginger - Slices of ginger brightens the overall flavor profile of the congee. Also, add julienned ginger to the marinating pork to reduce gaminess.
Shaoxing Wine - Add cooking rice wine to the pork marinate to add depth to the sauce.
Cornstarch - cornstarch is added to the pork to create a velveting coating.
Vegetable Oil - Add a little vegetable oil to help lock in moisture and prevent the pork from drying out.
Chicken Bouillon Powder - chicken essence adds flavor, and depth and brightens a pot of congee.
Most dry goods ingredients, tools and supplies can be purchased at your local Asian grocery store or online at my Amazon Store. I have linked the products for your convenience!
What Is Century Egg?
Century Egg (皮蛋 Pídàn) are duck eggs preserved in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, rice hulls and quicklime. They are not really thousand-year-old eggs. Century eggs take about 4-5 weeks to make.
The process of making century eggs involves several steps. First, the eggs are cleaned and then coated in a mixture of clay, ash, and quicklime.
The salted eggs are then left to cure for several weeks to several months, depending on the desired level of preservation. During this time, the chemical reactions within the egg change its appearance and flavor. The egg yolk turns a dark green or grey color, and the white becomes translucent and jelly-like.
You do not need to cook century eggs. Break away the layer of century egg mixture, peel away the eggshell and give it a good rinse. Enjoy it like a hard-boiled egg. No cooking is required.
Modern production methods individually pack each Thousand Year Eggs with the rice hulls layer removed from the egg shells.
Fermented duck eggs are alkaline, not acidic. The transforming agent, alkaline salt, gradually raises the pH of the eggs to around 9 to 12 during the curing process.
Century eggs are often used as a condiment or ingredient in various dishes, such as congee, noodles, and rice bowls. Its silky smooth texture of preserved century eggs are perfect in this refreshing classic Century Egg and Cold Tofu 凉拌皮蛋豆腐 dish. You can make this childhood favourite in just 5 minutes!
These cured hundred-year egg are known for their unique and distinctive flavor, savory, slightly sweet, and slightly salty. They are also a rich source of protein and other nutrients.
While century eggs may not be for everyone due to their unusual appearance and flavor, they are a beloved and traditional ingredient in many parts of Asia. They are worth trying if you are interested in exploring new and unique flavors.
Instructions
Many Hong Kong style dim sum restaurants will have several type of rice porridge on their menu. To recreate delicious congee at home with minimal effort, we use an Instant Pot pressure cooker to reduce the cooking time by half! Pressure cooking cooks a pot of comforting rice porridge in a fraction of the time.
Compared to the traditional method of the stovetop version, using a large pot, a high pressure Instant Pot turns your favourite congee into a creamy texture in just 20 minutes. Even using a slow cooker took too long!
Marinating Pork
Wash and clean pork loin or pork shank.
Thinly slice pork with a sharp knife.
Add pork strips, salt, white pepper, Shaoxing rice wine, ginger slices, cornstarch and a little vegetable oil in a large bowl. Mix well. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.
Rinse and wash white jasmine rice a couple of times. On your last rinse, the water should be mostly clear (opaque white turns clear).
Instant Pot Pressure Cooking
Add white rice, marinated sliced pork, julienned ginger and fresh cold water into the pressure cooker (Instant Pot) on high pressure for 20 minutes. Close lid and let it naturally release pressure. If you are in a hurry, you can also opt of quick release.
For Chinese people, the perfect way to cook any of kind of rice porridge is to create the perfect fluffy white plain congee base 白粥!
Carefully turn the venting knob to release the remaining pressure. Open the lid. Stir and check for a porridge-like consistency.
Add Century Egg of your preferred size: large chunks, smaller pieces, diced, sliced or quartered millennium egg. It is up to you!
The congee is then simmered until all ingredients are fully cooked and the flavours melded together.
Assembly
Garnish with finely chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, ground white pepper and sesame oil.
Enjoy this symphony of flavours and textures.
Century Egg and Pork Congee is a satisfying and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day.
This is one of my favourite kinds of healthy food. It is super cozy and is perfect for any occasion (not just when you are sick).
It is also easy to make and can be easily customized to your taste. Add some diced vegetables, like Chinese broccoli (Kai Lan) or baby bak choy, for extra flavor and nutrition.
No matter how you choose to enjoy it, Century Egg and Pork Congee is sure to become a new favorite.
Pro Tip: Congee is not the same as cooking white rice in the rice cooker and then adding hot water to it. This is not how you make congee. The rice and water will separate, and the congee will not form a fluffy and creamy texture!
Popular Chinese Style Congee
Chinese-style congee, also known as jook or rice porridge, is a traditional and popular dish in many parts of China. Here are a few popular Chinese-style congee recipes:
- Chicken and Ginger Congee: This is a classic Chinese congee recipe that is made with chicken, ginger, and rice. The chicken is simmered with the rice until it is tender, and then ginger is added to give the congee a spicy and aromatic flavor.
- Beef and Cilantro congee: This is a hearty and flavorful congee that is made with beef, cilantro, and rice. The beef is simmered with the rice until it is tender, and then the cilantro and scallions are added for a burst of flavor and color.
- Seafood Congee: This is a flavorful and hearty congee made with a variety of seafood, such as shrimp, squid, and scallops. The seafood is added to the congee, ginger, and other seasonings to give it a savory and aromatic flavor.
- Kabocha Squash and Corn Congee: This is a simple type of congee recipe for vegetarians. This savory porridge made with kabocha squash, also known as Japanese pumpkin. If you love Kabocha, you will love Chinese Steamed Spareribs with Squash!
These are just a few examples of the many types of Chinese-style congee enjoyed in China. Whether you prefer a simple and comforting congee or a more complex and flavorful one, there is a Chinese-style congee recipe to suit your taste.
What To Serve With Congee
Many delicious dishes can be served with Chinese porridge (congee, jook), depending on your preference and the specific type of congee you are serving. Some popular options include:
- Fried dough sticks: These crunchy, deep-fried sticks are a common accompaniment to congee in many parts of China. They can be served alongside the congee or broken up and mixed into the congee itself.
- Fried or Boiled Dumplings: Dumplings are a classic Chinese dish that can be served with congee as a tasty and filling side dish. They can be boiled or fried and can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as meat, seafood, or vegetables.
- Steamed Buns: Steamed buns, also known as baozi, are soft, pillowy rolls that are filled with a variety of ingredients, such as pork, chicken, or vegetables. They are often served with congee as a tasty and convenient way to add protein to the meal.
- Fried Rice: Fried rice is a classic Chinese dish that is made by stir-frying cooked rice with a variety of ingredients, such as vegetables, protein, and seasonings. It can be served alongside congee as a flavorful and filling side dish.
- Steamed or Stir-Fried Vegetables: Vegetables are a healthy and delicious way to add flavor and nutrition to your congee. Try steaming or stir-frying a variety of vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, or bell peppers, and serving them alongside your congee.
- Green Scallion Pancake and fresh soy bean milk.
- Chinese Pan Fried Soy Sauce Noodles: These simple Hong Kong-style egg noodles with fresh scallion greens and mung bean sprouts are umami-packed. This noodle stir fry is a popular dish at Cantonese dim sum restaurants.
- HK Style French Toast: French toast is often an add-on to your A or B Set Menu (早餐套餐AB餐). Complete your morning with nostalgic feelings!
Remember, the options are endless, and you can get creative with what you choose to serve with your congee. The key is to find dishes that complement the congee's flavours and textures and provide a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
I'd love to see how you went with my recipes! Leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @INSTANOMSS #INSTANOMSS.
> Recipe
PrintInstant Pot Salted Pork and Century Egg Congee 皮蛋瘦肉粥 壓力鍋
皮蛋瘦肉粥 Instant Pot Salted Pork and Century Egg Congee Recipe is a traditional Chinese dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It is a rice porridge made with various ingredients, including pork, century eggs (thousand-year eggs), and various seasonings. It takes just 20 minutes to make this delicious dim sum restaurant quality favourite in the pressure cooker. Serve this Chinese fried dough and rice rolls for the ultimate comfort food breakfast!
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 20
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2-4 persons 1x
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Instant Pot
- Cuisine: Chinese
Ingredients
- 225g White Jasmine Rice
- 3.5L Fresh Drinking Water (½ mark on 8 qrt Instant Pot)
- 3 Preserved Duck Egg Century Eggs, washed, peeled and diced
- 2 inch Fresh Ginger knob, julienne
- 1 tsp Sesame Oil, optional
- ¼ C Finely Chopped Green Onions, garnish
- ¼ C Finely Chopped Cilantro, garnish
- Salt to taste
- Ground White Pepper to taste
Pork Marinade
- ½ lbs Pork Tenderloin or Pork Shank, thinly sliced
- 1 tsp Ground White Pepper Powder
- 1 tbsp Shaoxing Cooking Wine
- 1 tsp Salt
- 2 tsp Vegetable Oil
- 1 tbsp Water
- 1 tsp Cornstarch
- 1 inch Fresh Ginger knob, julienne
Instructions
- Wash and clean pork loin or pork shank.
- Thinly slice pork with a sharp knife.
- Add pork strips, salt, white pepper, Shaoxing rice wine, ginger slices, cornstarch and a little vegetable oil in a large bowl. Mix well. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes.
- Rinse and wash white jasmine rice a couple of times. On your last rinse, the water should be mostly clear (opaque white turns clear).
- Add white rice, marinated sliced pork, julienned ginger and fresh cold water into the pressure cooker (Instant Pot) on high pressure for 20 minutes. Close lid and let it naturally release pressure. If you are in a hurry, you can also opt of quick release.
- Carefully turn the venting knob to release the remaining pressure. Open the lid. Stir and check for a porridge-like consistency.
- Add Century Egg of your preferred size: large chunks, smaller pieces, diced, sliced or quartered millennium egg. It is up to you!
- The congee is then simmered until all ingredients are fully cooked and the flavours melded together.
- Garnish with finely chopped green onions, fresh cilantro, ground white pepper and sesame oil.
- Enjoy this symphony of flavours and textures.
Notes
- It is also easy to make and can be easily customized to your taste. Add some diced vegetables, like Chinese broccoli (Kai Lan) or baby bak choy, for extra flavor and nutrition.
- Congee is not the same as cooking white rice in the rice cooker and then adding hot water to it.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 pot
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0.4 g
- Sodium: 432.7 mg
- Fat: 7.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 47 g
- Fiber: 1.2 g
- Protein: 20.7 g
- Cholesterol: 176.3 mg
Pin the above image to your Chinese Recipe Pinterest Board to bookmark this page. We are so excited to share our recipes with you!
More Chinese Recipes
Chinese Steamed Chicken With Shiitake Mushroom 冬菇蒸雞
Air Fryer BBQ Pork Char Siu 氣炸鍋蜜汁叉燒
Red Bean Soup (Instant Pot) 蓮子百合紅豆沙
Braised Beef Brisket & Tendon 柱侯蘿蔔炆牛筋腩
Best Postpartum Pig Trotter Black Vinegar and Ginger 豬腳薑醋
This post contains affiliate links and/or products submitted to Nomss for editorial consideration. To find out more, please visit our About/Disclaimer page.
Remove Ad-Block to view shopping guide!
Marie-Pierre Breton says
I was asking my Cantonese friend this week about congee! The famous congee! I always wanted to try it out since my kids love rice I though this would probably be a winner! I'm gonna try this soon. Thanks for sharing!
Sean says
I just went back to my favourite dim sum place for the first time since Covid (sigh), and I forgot how much I missed this very dish. I love the Instant Pot touch, and it's really making me rethink my approach congee in general. I might have to have it at home more often at this rate. Also, hooray for century eggs! 😀
Nancy says
Thanks Sean! how do you normall make congee at home if not with an Instant Pot? You must share your tips and tricks with me !
jennifer says
I love trying new recipes for breakfast, this one is outside my normal . . .but I think it looks amazingly nutritious and comforting. Can't wait to make!
Nancy says
Hope you have a lovely start to your mornings!
Kristen says
Such great flavours and textures in this congee. I really enjoyed it. I was a little bit intimidated to make this but the instructions lay it out so easily, it was actually more simple than I thought it would be.
Nancy says
Thanks Kristen - i'm so happy to hear that my instructions were easy to follow!
Donny says
Loved this! So much flavor and a great use of my IP.
Nancy says
IP congee ftw!
Colleen says
The rice pudding is wonderful. I didn't know exactly what century eggs were about so I learned something new, as I often do here. Thank you!
Nancy says
I'm glad you found it interesting and useful!
Jess says
This is so flavorful
Nancy says
i love the different textures and flavours of this homey meal!
Shelby says
This rice pudding is so comforting! Simple flavors and so hearty!
Nancy says
it's perfect whenever you need a warm hug!
Amy Liu Dong says
Such a perfect dish to make for this cold weather. Yum!
Nancy says
Totally just warms up your stomache!
Giangi Townsend says
Such a great dish. I can ever get enough. The great part is that I can make it at home.
Thank you for a great recipe.
Nancy says
Thanks Giangi! Good things this recipe takes just 20 mins!
Liz says
This pressure cooker version is a winner!! Your recipes are always wonderful and this one was, too!!
Nancy says
Thanks Liz! You're always super supportive !
Sue says
What a wonderful breakfast idea!
Nancy says
Thanks Sue! enjoy!
Elizabeth says
I love that you make these traditional dishes so easy to make. Thanks for the recipe!
Nancy says
Thanks Elizabeth! Glad you find it helpful!
Marcellina says
Looks so tasty!
Nancy says
Thanks !
Andréa Janssen says
What a delicious Recipe. Thank you for sharing!
Nancy says
Thanks Andrea! So glad you love it!
Gloria says
Wow making this authentic dish at home is awesome. No more takeout. Tastes so much better homemade.
Nancy says
I love making congee at home because we know exactly how much sodium we put in it!
Dana says
I've heard so much about century eggs yet haven't tried one! We can get them at the East Asian market in town so I'm definitely going to try this! Looks cozy.
Nancy says
Hope you get to find some at your local market!
Dannii says
This is my kind of comfort food. Such incredible flavours.
Nancy says
Enjoy Dannii! It's super soothing for the body!
kushigalu says
simple yet flavorful. Love the recipe. Thanks for sharing.
Nancy says
It's just the perfect comfort dish!
MacKenzie says
I made this for my family and it was fantastic. The flavors are amazing
Nancy says
I'm so glad everyone loves it!