Mulberry, Black Bean, Goji and Black Rice Congee

Why people make this congee

In Chinese food therapy, mulberry is considered one of the great “kidney-nourishing fruits,” traditionally associated with easing fatigue, supporting memory, calming a restless mind and encouraging healthy, dark hair. When fresh mulberries are in season they arrive sweet, slightly tart, and deeply purple-black — a sign of the very anthocyanins that make them so valued. Paired with black soybeans, goji berries and black rice — all foods that share a similar traditional reputation — this congee becomes a gentle but substantial one-pot meal that Nourilo recommends for anyone feeling run-down, experiencing early greying, or recovering from illness.

The congee is mild in nature. Fresh mulberries are slightly cooling, so if you tend to feel cold easily, use the dried variety and you will find the overall balance more agreeable.