Longan, Red Date & Black Rice Congee

Why people make this congee

Nourilo discovered this congee while preparing a photo shoot for his book on healthy ageing. He had bought black rice — an ingredient he does not use all that often — and was pleasantly surprised by how beautifully it cooks up into a rich, slightly nutty, naturally coloured porridge.

Black rice is not just visually striking. It is rich in anthocyanins (the same purple pigments found in blueberries) and flavonoids, both of which have well-established antioxidant properties. These compounds are associated with reducing inflammation, supporting healthy blood pressure, and protecting blood vessel integrity. Combined with longan flesh and red dates — two of the most popular blood-nourishing foods in Chinese culinary tradition — this congee becomes a powerful restorative for anyone dealing with fatigue, pallor, or blood deficiency.