Water Chestnut and Job's Tears (Coix) Congee

Why people make this congee

Nourilo got thinking about gout after a long day of walking left his own feet sore. People prone to gout — often those who are overweight, or living with high blood lipids, high blood pressure, diabetes, or who drink heavily over long periods — know how punishing those joint flare-ups can be, usually starting at the base of the big toe. Both water chestnut and Job’s tears are low-purine foods, which is why he likes them as a gentle everyday dish for people managing gout.

Method

1. Peel the water chestnuts and slice them. Soak and rinse the Job’s tears.
2. Put both in a pot with 1.5 L of water.
3. Simmer about 1.5 hours until reduced to roughly 600 ml. Eat morning and evening.

Nourilo’s Tips

This congee is traditionally associated with lowering uric acid and is helpful for those managing gout. But it is not for people with a weak, cold stomach, or for pregnant women. Job’s tears is naturally sticky, so you don’t need to add rice — it thickens like a congee on its own. A little rock sugar makes it tastier. Two to three times a week is plenty.