Comfort food doesn't get much more comforting than a steaming bowl of rice porridge, and this recipe elevates the classic dish with the earthy, umami flavor of straw mushrooms. This fragrant and flavorful vegetarian porridge is perfect for a chilly evening or a light yet satisfying meal anytime. The subtle sweetness of the rice beautifully complements the unique texture and taste of the straw mushrooms, creating a harmonious blend of textures and flavors. Imagine the delicate aroma wafting from your kitchen as the porridge simmers, promising a culinary experience that's both simple and deeply rewarding.
This recipe utilizes readily available ingredients and a straightforward method, making it ideal for both novice and experienced cooks. Beyond the basic recipe, we'll also explore tips and variations to personalize your porridge to your liking. Ready to embark on a culinary journey to create this delightful dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below.
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Pan
Ingredients
- Rice: a little
- Squash: 1
- Straw Mushrooms
- Taro Root: a little
- Coriander: a little
- Sugar
- Vegetarian Seasoning
- Pepper
- Bean Sprouts: a little
- Dried Tofu
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Rice and Aromatics
- Roast the rice until golden brown. Wash and wet the rice before roasting to ensure it's fragrant and not burnt.
- Wash the roasted rice again. Prepare a pot of boiling water and add the rice.
- Fry chopped coriander until fragrant.
Step 2. Cook the Vegetables and Tofu
- In a separate pot, cook the squash with a little salt to create sweet water.
- Cut the taro into small cubes and add it to the squash pot.
- Cook the squash and taro for 40 minutes.
- Rinse the dried tofu, drain, and fry until puffed and golden brown.
Step 3. Sauté Mushrooms and Season
- Add straw mushrooms (cut larger ones into bite-sized pieces), stir-fry, and season with sugar, vegetarian seasoning, pepper, and vegetarian fish sauce.
- Stir-fry the mushrooms until they absorb the spices.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- After 40 minutes, check the rice porridge. If you prefer a softer porridge, cook it longer. Remove the cooked squash.
- Add the stir-fried straw mushrooms to the porridge and cook for an additional 20 minutes. Season to taste.
- Before serving, sprinkle chopped Ngo rí (coriander) on top.
- Serve the porridge with vermicelli, bean sprouts, and pennywort. You can dip it in soy sauce or vegetarian fish sauce.
Read more: Vietnamese Fish Rice Porridge (Cháo Cá): A Comforting Bowl
Tips
- Using fragrant rice will make the porridge more delicious.
- The more straw mushrooms, the more delicious it will be.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 250-350
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbs: 50-65g
- Protein: 5-8g
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of mushrooms instead of straw mushrooms?
Yes! Shiitake, oyster, or cremini mushrooms would all work well as substitutes. Their flavors will slightly alter the final taste, but it will still be delicious.
2. How can I make the porridge thicker or thinner?
For thicker porridge, use less water or broth. For thinner porridge, add more liquid. You can also adjust the type of rice; short-grain rice will create a creamier porridge than long-grain.
3. Can I prepare this porridge ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this porridge ahead of time and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. It may thicken slightly upon reheating, so you may need to add a little extra water or broth.
This fragrant rice porridge with straw mushrooms offers a simple yet satisfying vegetarian meal, perfect for any time of day. The recipe's versatility allows for customization, encouraging you to experiment with different ingredients and flavors. Enjoy the comforting warmth and delicious taste of this easy-to-make, flavorful porridge!