Chinese Snow Pear Congee
Snow Pear Congee - An All-Natural Cough Medicine
The Cantonese are raised with the notion that one’s health is a reflection of the foods they eat, and it is often said that congee keeps the stomach healthy. Depending on the season, different types of congee dishes are most beneficial: during cold weather a heartier congee will help maintain proper nutrition, while hot weather calls for a thirst-quenching and moistening congee.
Snow pear congee is a Cantonese favorite come autumn, with the sweet flavors of the fruit and sugar blending together for a delicious treat.
Interesting Fact: Cantonese believe snow pear congee is best eaten at night, when the coolness and moisture in the air is strongest and coughing or shortness of breath are common. To relieve these symptoms and breathe more easily, try this dish around 3 am.
Enhanced Nutrition
Chinese snow pear congee helps moisten the lungs and stimulates saliva production. It also nourishes facial skin, giving it more color and keeping it healthy. It is especially suitable for those suffering from dry mouth, coughing, or skin discomfort.
Ingredients
- 2 snow pears
- 4/5 cup (150 grams) rice
Seasonings
- crystallized rock sugar, as needed
Cooking Directions
- Wash and peel the snow pears, remove the pits, and cut into small pieces.
- Wash and rinse the rice, and soak in water for 30 minutes.
- Scoop out the rice, and pour the water into a pot, adding more if necessary. Add in the snow pears and boil under high heat for 30 minutes, straining out any solid bits of fruit and leaving only the juice.
- Add the rice to the pot, and bring to boil once again; once boiling, turn to low heat and simmer for 1 hour.
- Add in a small amount of crystallized sugar and cook for an additional 5 minutes.