Lotus Leaf, Rush Pith and Ophiopogon Barley Congee

Why people make this congee

In traditional thinking, children are said to have “an abundance of liver, a shortage of spleen” — meaning their inner fire flares easily. Nourilo notes that when a child is short on sleep and heat builds up, you may see chapped, dry lips and sudden irritability for no clear reason. This congee is a soft, mild-tasting bowl traditionally used to nourish yin, gently clear that excess heart-fire and help an unsettled little one calm down.

Method

1. Rinse all the ingredients.
2. Combine with the barley rice and enough water (roughly 3–4 times the volume of the dry ingredients) and simmer into a smooth, moderately thick congee, about 1 hour.
3. Stir in rock sugar until dissolved. Serve in any reasonable amount.

Nourilo’s Tips

This congee has very little herbal taste, so children rarely resist it. It suits restless sleepers and those who are irritable and quick to temper. If you prefer a drink rather than a congee, you can use just 38 g of barley rice, add more water and simmer for 1 hour for the whole family.