Jook (Rice Porridge)

Jook - also known as congee - is eaten in Chinese communities around the world. Despite its odd name, it has wide-ranging appeal and has become one of the author's favorites. The dish takes many guises in restaurants but can easily be made at home. Use it as a side dish with chicken, pork, or beef. You can also stir in fish, shrimp, chicken, or cooked egg to make it a main dish. While glutinous sushi rice gives the dish a sticky-creamy texture, Arborio retains more of its bite after the long cooking time for added texture.