Water Chestnut and Poria Congee

Why people make this congee

The water chestnut is crisp, sweet, and so versatile it has earned the nickname “underground snow pear.” When choosing, look for firm, unblemished ones — discard any with yellowed or damaged flesh. Water chestnut is cooling — traditionally it clears heat, generates fluids, moves phlegm and calms a hot, agitated chest. Poria, besides settling damp, has a quieting quality. Together in a congee they make a soothing bowl for those whose mood swings easily and who feel restless and quick to anger.