Century Egg Congee
Hawker • Singapore
How to Make Century Egg Congee (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Century Egg Congee, known locally as 'pei dan chok', is a beloved comfort dish rooted in Singapore’s rich hawker culture. This silky rice porridge is a staple at kopitiams, cherished for its soothing texture and savoury depth. The unique flavour of century egg melds perfectly with fragrant jasmine rice, making it a lunchtime favourite among Singaporeans of all ages. Originating from the East Asian tradition of preserved eggs, Singaporean Century Egg Congee stands out for its fusion of local ingredients and preparation styles. Many hawker stalls add garnishes like spring onions, you tiao (fried dough sticks), and sesame oil, reflecting both Chinese heritage and Singapore's multicultural palate. The dish is hearty yet gentle on the stomach, making it a popular choice for breakfast or a light lunch. Whether enjoyed on a rainy day or as a nourishing pick-me-up, this congee is a true representation of Singapore’s vibrant food scene.
Ingredients(for 1 medium bowl per person)
- 1/2 cup Jasmine rice (short-grain preferred)
- 4 cups Water (filtered)
- 1 whole Century egg (pei dan, peeled and diced)
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon White pepper (freshly ground)
- 2 stalks Spring onion (sliced, local name: daun bawang)
- 1 thumb-sized piece Ginger (julienned)
- 1 teaspoon Sesame oil
- 1 stick You tiao (fried dough stick, sliced (optional)) - optional
- 1 teaspoon Light soy sauce (low sodium preferred) - optional
Instructions
- 1
Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the congee from becoming gummy.
2 minutes
Use a fine sieve for faster rinsing.
- 2
In a large pot, combine the rinsed rice and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
5 minutes
Stir occasionally to prevent rice from sticking to the bottom.
- 3
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Add julienned ginger. Cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until the rice breaks down and the mixture thickens (about 15 minutes).
15 minutes
Simmer longer for a creamier congee.
- 4
Stir in the diced century egg and continue to simmer for another 3 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld.
3 minutes
Add eggs last to preserve their texture.
Why This Dish is Healthy
Century Egg Congee is a healthy choice because it uses simple, whole-food ingredients without added oil or heavy seasoning. The dish is made with water instead of broth to keep sodium low, and uses a moderate amount of century egg for flavour without excess cholesterol. Topped with fresh herbs and a touch of sesame oil, this version is both heart-friendly and suitable for those watching their calorie intake.
This vegetarian Century Egg Congee is low in fat, moderate in complex carbohydrates, and provides energizing B vitamins from rice. Ginger aids digestion, while spring onions add antioxidants and minerals. Century egg, despite being a preserved food, is relatively low in calories and offers some protein and iron. The dish is hydrating and easy to digest, making it suitable for all ages and especially beneficial for those seeking light, nutritious meals.
Pro Tips
- 💡Tip 1: Soak rice for 30 minutes before cooking for extra creamy texture.
- 💡Tip 2: Use a claypot for more authentic flavour and even heat distribution.
- 💡Tip 3: Stir frequently to prevent rice from sticking and burning at the bottom.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover congee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over the stove with a splash of water to restore creaminess. Avoid storing garnishes like spring onions and you tiao; add these fresh when serving.
Best served: Breakfast or Lunch
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per 100g |
|---|---|
| Energy | 220.0 kcal |
