CHICKEN CONGEE WITH BONE BROTH AND SHIITAKE

Postpartum recovery calls for meals that feel like a warm hug, and chicken congee delivers just that. This silky, savory rice porridge is a classic postpartum staple in many cultures, and for good reason—it’s warm, hydrating, and packed with easily digestible nutrients. The bone broth helps rebuild your strength with collagen and minerals, while the shiitake mushrooms and miso offer gentle immune support. With the comforting flavors of ginger and garlic, this congee is as healing as it is delicious.  

INGREDIENTS:

- 1 cup glutinous rice  

- 8 cups bone broth  

- 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded  

- 1 cup shiitake mushrooms, sliced  

- 2 cloves garlic, minced  

- 1-inch piece ginger, grated  

- 2 tablespoons soy sauce  

- 2 green onions, chopped  

- Salt and pepper to taste  

- Optional: a small spoon of miso dissolved in water  

METHOD:

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Clean rice is happy rice.  

2. In a large pot, combine the rice and bone broth; bring to a boil.  

3. Lower the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally, until the rice breaks down into a creamy porridge (about 1 to 1.5 hours). This is where patience works its magic.  

4. While the congee is cooking, sauté the garlic, ginger, and mushrooms in a separate pan until tender and fragrant.  

5. Add the cooked chicken and soy sauce to the mushroom mixture; stir to combine all that umami goodness.  

6. Once the congee has reached your desired consistency, stir in the chicken and mushroom mixture until evenly incorporated.  

7. If you’re using miso, turn off the heat, dissolve it in a small amount of warm water, and stir it into the congee for a final boost of probiotics and flavor.  

8. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with green onions for a fresh, bright finish.  

This chicken congee is more than just a meal—it’s a postpartum powerhouse in a bowl. Warm, hydrating, and packed with nutrients, it’s the perfect way to nourish your body while it heals. One spoonful and you’ll feel the love.