The moment the Instant Pot hisses to life, I can already smell the comforting essence of my childhood swirling in the kitchen. There’s something so heartwarming about congee—it’s like a hug in a bowl. This Instant Pot Breakfast Congee is my go-to when I crave that creamy rice porridge, full of flavor and nostalgia.
Imagine waking up to the mingling aromas of ginger and chicken broth, all while knowing that a satisfying meal is just a few button presses away. Topped with crispy bacon, a sunny-side-up egg, and a drizzle of spicy chili oil, this dish proves that breakfast can be both nourishing and indulgent. Best of all, it’s not just for the morning rush; this versatile recipe shines at any time of day, making quick meals a breeze.
Say goodbye to fast food and rediscover comfort food that warms your heart and fills your belly. Dive into this congee adventure with me, where every bite is a bit of love, simplicity, and a touch of home!
Why is Instant Pot Breakfast Congee a Must-Try?
Comforting: This hearty dish wraps you in warmth with its creamy texture and rich flavors.
Quick Cooking: The Instant Pot reduces cooking time, allowing for a hassle-free meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Versatile: Perfect for any time of the day—breakfast, lunch, or dinner—its adaptability is unmatched.
Crowd-Pleasing Toppings: Crispy bacon and sunny-side-up eggs elevate your congee experience.
Gluten-Free Option: Easily adjust the ingredients to cater to dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.
This Instant Pot Breakfast Congee not only satisfies cravings but also brings a taste of home with every bite, making it a delightful addition to your recipe collection.
Instant Pot Breakfast Congee Ingredients
For the Congee
• Short Grain Rice – Provides a creamy texture when cooked; you can substitute with medium grain rice if needed.
• Low Sodium Chicken Broth – Adds depth of flavor; for a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead.
• Ginger – Infuses warmth and earthiness into the dish; fresh slices work best for optimal flavor.
• Green Onions – Contribute a fresh, mild taste; reserve some for garnishing before serving.
• Salt – Enhances overall flavor; adjust to individual taste preferences as needed.
For the Toppings
• Bacon – Brings a savory, crispy texture that complements the congee beautifully; turkey bacon serves as a lighter substitute.
• Olive Oil (or Vegetable Oil) – Essential for frying bacon and eggs, preventing sticking and adding flavor.
• Pete and Gerry’s Organic Eggs – Recommended for superior taste and nutrition; you can use any large egg in their place.
• Soy Sauce – Provides a savory, umami flavor; choose tamari for a gluten-free version if desired.
• Chili Oil – Adds a delightful spiciness; for a milder option, substitute with sesame oil instead.
This Instant Pot Breakfast Congee is perfect for those looking to embrace homemade comfort food with quick, impressive results!
How to Make Instant Pot Breakfast Congee
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Prepare the Congee: In your Instant Pot, combine the short grain rice, low sodium chicken broth, ginger, chopped green onions, and salt. Close the lid and select the high-pressure setting for 25 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for perfect creaminess.
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Adjust Texture: Once cooked, give the congee a gentle stir to thicken. If you prefer a thinner consistency, use the sauté function to boil it down or add a splash of hot water.
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Cook Toppings: While the congee cooks, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside. In the same skillet, fry the eggs to your liking, adding a bit of oil to prevent sticking if necessary.
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Assemble Bowls: Scoop the warm congee into bowls, artfully topping them with fried eggs, crispy bacon, additional green onions, a drizzle of soy sauce, and chili oil for an added kick. Enjoy while hot!
Optional: Garnish with extra green onions and a dash of sesame seeds for a delightful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Instant Pot Breakfast Congee preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to simplify their mornings! You can prep the congee base (rice, chicken broth, ginger, green onions, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the ingredients in the Instant Pot, seal it, and refrigerate until ready to cook. When you’re set to enjoy your comforting breakfast, simply pressure cook and proceed with the additional steps. For toppings like bacon and fried eggs, consider cooking them fresh right before serving to maintain their delightful textures. However, you can cook the bacon ahead and reheat it quickly in the skillet, ensuring this dish remains just as delicious!
Expert Tips for Instant Pot Breakfast Congee
- Rice Choice Matters: Use short grain rice for the desired creaminess. Medium grain can be used, but adjust cooking time for best results.
- Flavor Boost: Consider adding a pinch of white pepper along with ginger for an extra depth of warmth in your Instant Pot Breakfast Congee.
- Avoiding Burn: Ensure enough liquid is present to prevent the Instant Pot from generating a burn notice; always check before starting.
- Crispy Bacon: Stay close while frying bacon to prevent burning. Medium-low heat helps achieve the perfect crisp without smoke.
- Reheat with Care: When storing leftover congee, reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to retain that delightful creamy consistency.
What to Serve with Instant Pot Breakfast Congee?
Pair your comforting bowl of congee with delicious sides and toppings for a complete meal that delights the senses.
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Crispy Bacon: Perfectly cooked bacon adds a savory crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy congee; it’s a beloved topping that enhances flavor. Bacon lovers won’t be able to resist diving right in!
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Sunny-Side-Up Eggs: Topped with a golden egg, the rich yolk creates a luscious sauce as it runs into the congee, adding extra creaminess that’s hard to beat.
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Sautéed Spinach: Fresh, vibrant sautéed spinach not only brings a pop of color but also adds nutrients and balances the richness of the dish.
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Sesame Soy Sauce: A drizzle of sesame soy sauce infuses umami notes, complementing the dish perfectly while allowing the flavors to shine brighter.
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Chili Oil: If you’re a fan of heat, a drizzle of chili oil adds the perfect spicy kick to elevate this comforting dish, making it exciting with every bite!
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Pickled Vegetables: The tangy crunch of pickled vegetables brightens the palate, providing a refreshing contrast to the smoothness of the congee. It’s a delightful way to introduce layers of flavor.
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Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh cilantro or basil brings an aromatic dimension that brightens the rich flavors of congee, giving each spoonful a wonderful herbal note.
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Fruit Smoothie: Pairing your meal with a refreshing fruit smoothie adds a sweet yet nutritious element that complements the comforting rice porridge wonderfully.
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Green Tea: A warm cup of green tea serves as a lovely drink alongside congee, enhancing the overall soothing experience of your meal. It’s a delightful combination to savor and enjoy!
Instant Pot Breakfast Congee Variations
Looking to add a personal twist to your Instant Pot Breakfast Congee? Here are some fun and delicious ideas to make this dish truly yours!
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the bacon and top with sautéed shiitake mushrooms for a hearty, meat-free experience.
- Green Boost: Stir in fresh spinach or kale just before serving for an extra layer of nutrients and vibrant color.
- Spice Lover’s Dream: Add a touch of red pepper flakes or sliced jalapeños to the congee during cooking for a spicy kick.
- Fruit Fusion: Incorporate diced mango or sliced bananas for a sweet contrast that brightens your breakfast bowl.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like cilantro or basil at the end for a refreshing burst of flavor and aroma.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped toasted peanuts or sesame seeds for a delightful crunch that adds texture to each bite.
- Cheesy Comfort: Stir in a handful of shredded cheese while the congee simmers for a creamy, cheesy twist.
- Leftover Remix: Use leftover cooked grains instead of raw rice—just adjust the liquid and cooking time for a speedy meal!
Feel free to mix and match these variations to create your perfect bowl of comfort!
How to Store and Freeze Instant Pot Breakfast Congee
Fridge: Store leftover congee in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently with a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain its creamy texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the congee in portions using freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It will keep well for up to 2 months.
Thawing: Thaw frozen congee overnight in the fridge before reheating. Add a bit of broth or water while warming to restore creaminess.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy the Instant Pot Breakfast Congee again, reheat on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even warmth.
Instant Pot Breakfast Congee Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right rice for my congee?
Absolutely! Short grain rice is ideal for creating that creamy texture in your Instant Pot Breakfast Congee. If you can’t find it, medium grain rice can work too; just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may differ slightly.
How should I store leftover congee?
Very simply! Put your leftover congee in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it slowly on the stovetop with a splash of chicken broth or water to keep it creamy.
Can I freeze the Instant Pot Breakfast Congee?
Absolutely! You can freeze your congee for up to 2 months. Pour it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags—just make sure to remove as much air as possible. For the best results, thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. When you reheat, be sure to add a little broth or water to bring back that luscious creamy consistency!
What should I do if my congee is too thick?
If your congee turns out thicker than you’d like, don’t worry! Simply use the sauté function on your Instant Pot, adding hot water or broth gradually while stirring until you reach your desired texture. This method allows you to control the creaminess to your liking.
Is there a gluten-free option for the soy sauce?
Yes, indeed! If you’re looking to make your Instant Pot Breakfast Congee gluten-free, simply swap out regular soy sauce for tamari. It offers that same delicious umami flavor without the gluten, allowing everyone to enjoy this comfort dish!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Definitely! To make a vegetarian version of the Instant Pot Breakfast Congee, just omit the bacon and substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. For toppings, consider adding sautéed shiitake mushrooms or fresh greens like spinach for an extra burst of flavor and nutrition.
Delicious Instant Pot Breakfast Congee with Crispy Bacon Magic
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In your Instant Pot, combine the short grain rice, low sodium chicken broth, ginger, chopped green onions, and salt. Close the lid and select the high-pressure setting for 25 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for perfect creaminess.
- Once cooked, give the congee a gentle stir to thicken. If you prefer a thinner consistency, use the sauté function to boil it down or add a splash of hot water.
- While the congee cooks, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook the bacon until crispy, then remove and set aside.
- In the same skillet, fry the eggs to your liking, adding a bit of oil to prevent sticking if necessary.
- Scoop the warm congee into bowls, topping them with fried eggs, crispy bacon, additional green onions, a drizzle of soy sauce, and chili oil.
- Enjoy while hot!