Century Egg Congee, also called Preserved Egg and Pork Congee, is a classic Chinese breakfast and comfort dish. Combining silky rice porridge, tender pork, and the unique flavor of century eggs, this dish offers a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and umami notes.

Popular in Cantonese cuisine, it’s often enjoyed during breakfast or as a soothing meal when unwell, thanks to its gentle, nourishing nature.


📝 Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

For the Congee:

1 cup rice (preferably jasmine or long-grain)

8 cups water or chicken broth

150g lean pork, thinly sliced or minced

2 century eggs, peeled and diced

1–2 slices ginger

Salt to taste


Garnish / Optional Condiments:

Chopped spring onions

Fried shallots

White pepper

Soy sauce or sesame oil

🔥 Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Rinse and Prepare Rice

Rinse rice under cold water until water runs clear to remove excess starch.


Step 2: Cook the Congee

In a large pot, combine rice and water (or broth).

Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low.

Add ginger slices to infuse flavor.

Simmer for 40–50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice breaks down into a smooth, creamy porridge.

Step 3: Add Pork and Century Eggs

Add the thinly sliced pork to the simmering congee and cook for 5–8 minutes until tender.

Gently stir in diced century eggs and cook for another 2–3 minutes.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Remove ginger slices.

Add salt to taste and a dash of white pepper.

Serve hot, garnished with spring onions, fried shallots, and a drizzle of sesame oil or soy sauce if desired.

🌿 Tips & Variations

Pork Choice: Lean pork is preferred; thin slices cook quickly and stay tender.

Century Eggs: Rinse lightly before dicing to remove excess saltiness.

Broth: Using chicken broth enhances the umami flavor.

Consistency: Adjust water quantity for thicker or thinner congee.

Optional Add-ins: You can add dried scallops or mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.

🍚 Serving & Experience

Century Egg Congee is creamy, savory, and comforting, with tender pork and the distinctive flavor of century eggs creating a unique umami profile.

It’s a traditional Cantonese comfort food that embodies nourishment, warmth, and flavor, perfect for breakfast, a light dinner, or anytime you need a soothing, hearty meal.