Seafood Rice Porridge: Vietnamese Chao Hai San

When it comes to comforting and nourishing dishes, few things can compare to a steaming bowl of seafood rice porridge, known in Vietnamese cuisine as Chao Hai San. This traditional dish is a popular breakfast choice in Vietnam, but it can be enjoyed at any time of day. With its rich seafood flavor and hearty rice base, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day or soothe your soul when you’re feeling under the weather.

Seafood rice porridge is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you prefer a simple version with just a few ingredients or a more elaborate version with a variety of seafood and herbs, you can easily tailor this dish to your liking. No matter how you make it, you’re sure to enjoy the comforting flavors and textures of this traditional Vietnamese dish.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 6 cups chicken or seafood broth
• 1 lb mixed seafood (such as shrimp, squid, and mussels)
• 1/2 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 shallot, minced
• 1 inch piece of ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons fish sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fried garlic and sliced green onions for garnish

Instructions:

To make seafood rice porridge, start by rinsing the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the rice and set it aside. In a large pot, bring the chicken or seafood broth to a boil over medium-high heat. Once the broth is boiling, add the rice and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the rice, stirring occasionally, until it is tender and creamy, about 30-40 minutes.

While the rice is cooking, prepare the seafood and vegetables. In a separate pan, heat some oil over medium heat and sauté the garlic, shallot, and ginger until fragrant. Add the mixed seafood and mushrooms to the pan and cook until the seafood is opaque and the mushrooms are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Season the seafood with fish sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.

Once the rice is cooked, add the cooked seafood and vegetables to the pot and stir to combine. Allow the porridge to simmer for another 5-10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste the porridge and adjust the seasoning as needed. Serve the seafood rice porridge hot, garnished with fried garlic and sliced green onions.

Conclusion:

Seafood rice porridge is a delicious and comforting dish that is sure to warm your soul and satisfy your hunger. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this traditional Vietnamese dish is a true culinary delight. Try making seafood rice porridge at home and experience the rich flavors and textures of this beloved dish for yourself!