Nourishing Vegetable Porridge (Yachaejuk)
Nourishing Vegetable Porridge (Yachaejuk)
Boost Your Health with This Cancer-Fighting Vegetable Porridge Recipe
This recipe for Yachaejuk (Vegetable Porridge) is packed with nutrient-rich vegetables known for their potential to inhibit cancer cell growth. The phytonutrients abundant in these vegetables act as natural cancer fighters. Furthermore, the high fiber content supports gut health by feeding beneficial bacteria, thereby enhancing your immune system. Using glutinous rice or specifically a healthy whole grain option like sticky brown rice, this porridge is easily digestible and nourishing. The combination of various vegetables and the soft texture of the cooked rice creates a delightful and wholesome meal. Unlike traditional methods where ingredients are stir-fried, this recipe utilizes fresh vegetables directly, avoiding potential oxidation from oil and ensuring maximum health benefits. Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preference or availability. A drizzle of sesame oil and a sprinkle of sesame seeds at the end add a wonderful nutty aroma and flavor. Enjoy this vibrant and health-boosting porridge that is both delicious and beneficial.
Main Ingredients- 2 cups sticky brown rice (or glutinous rice)
- 10 cups water
- 1 medium carrot
- 1/4 head cabbage
- 1/2 medium onion
- 2 king oyster mushrooms
- 2-3 shiitake mushrooms
- 2 bell peppers (use various colors for visual appeal)
- 1/2 lotus root
- 1 head broccoli
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, rinse 2 cups of sticky brown rice (or glutinous rice) thoroughly. Soak the rice for at least 30 minutes; this will help it cook into a softer, more delicious porridge.
Step 2
Wash the broccoli and cabbage under running water. Then, soak them in water with a little vinegar for about 10 minutes to sanitize them. This step ensures they are clean and safe to consume.
Step 3
Peel the lotus root using a peeler and place it in water to prevent it from turning brown. This will help maintain its texture while ensuring it cooks tenderly in the porridge.
Step 4
Slice the peeled lotus root into bite-sized pieces. Cutting them not too thick will allow them to soften nicely as they cook in the porridge.
Step 5
Bring a pot of water to a boil and add 1 tablespoon of salt. Once boiling, add the prepared broccoli florets and blanch for about 1 minute. This quick blanching helps retain the broccoli’s vibrant green color.
Step 6
Immediately remove the blanched broccoli and rinse it under cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve its bright color. Drain thoroughly in a colander.
Step 7
Reheat the water used for blanching the broccoli. Add the sliced lotus root and blanch for about 2 minutes. After blanching, rinse the lotus root in cold water, let it cool, and drain it well in a colander.
Step 8
Wipe any dirt or debris off the king oyster mushrooms and shiitake mushrooms using a damp paper towel. Peel and wash the carrot. Wash the bell peppers, removing the stems and seeds.
Step 9
Finely mince all the prepared vegetables (except for a small portion of the blanched broccoli reserved for later). You can use a food processor or chop them finely by hand. Very finely chopped vegetables contribute to the smooth texture of the porridge. (Reserve a little of the blanched broccoli for the final step.)
Step 10
In a deep pot, combine the soaked sticky brown rice (or glutinous rice) and the finely minced vegetables. Add 10 cups of water and bring to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for about 20 minutes.
Step 11
While the porridge simmers, stir it every 10-15 minutes with a spatula to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the rice grains are thoroughly softened and the porridge reaches a smooth consistency. If you want to preserve the fresh green color of broccoli, add the reserved blanched broccoli during the last few minutes of cooking, let it simmer briefly, and then turn off the heat.
Step 12
Once the heat is turned off, ladle the well-cooked vegetable porridge into bowls. For extra flavor, drizzle a teaspoon of sesame oil and sprinkle with sesame seeds just before serving. Enjoy this warm, comforting, and satisfying meal that is easy on your stomach.
