Simple Rice Porridge
There’s something deeply comforting about a simple bowl of rice porridge. Soft, warm, and gently filling, this old-fashioned breakfast has been made in kitchens around the world for generations. Whether you know it as rice porridge, breakfast rice, or a humble bowl of rice cooked slow and tender, it’s the kind of food you turn to on quiet mornings, tired days, or when you just need something soothing and familiar. Made with basic pantry ingredients and easily adapted for sweet or savory toppings, this rice porridge recipe is simple, affordable, and endlessly comforting — the very definition of real food made the way it’s always been done.
What Is Rice Porridge?
Rice porridge is rice cooked slowly in extra liquid until the grains break down and turn soft and creamy. Nearly every culture has its own version because it’s cheap, filling, and easy on the body.
This version is the plain, old-fashioned kind — perfect as a base for sweet or savory toppings.
How Thick Should Rice Porridge Be?
That’s the beauty of it — you decide.
- Thicker = less liquid, longer simmer
- Thinner = more liquid, gentler heat
This is forgiving food. It won’t punish you.
Variations
Creamy Milk Rice Porridge
Use half water, half milk for richness.
Breakfast Rice (Old-School)
Serve with butter, sugar, and a splash of milk — very Depression-era, very comforting.
Savory Rice Porridge
Use water or broth and finish with salt and butter.
What to Serve With Rice Porridge
- Toast or biscuits
- Hot tea or coffee
- Soft fruit
Simple Rice Porridge
Ingredients
Method
- Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear.
- Add rice, water (or milk), and salt to a saucepan.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat.
- Reduce heat to low, cover loosely, and simmer 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is very soft and porridge-like.
- Stir in butter if using. Adjust thickness with more liquid if needed.
- Serve warm with desired toppings.
Notes
- White rice works best for softness
- Brown rice takes longer and stays firmer
- Leftover cooked rice can be used with added liquid
- This doubles easily for families
Optional Toppings (Sweet)
- Brown sugar or honey
- Cinnamon
- Milk or cream
Optional Toppings (Savory)
- Salt and butter
- Soft-cooked egg
- Splash of broth
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Keeps in the fridge up to 3 days
- Reheat gently with added liquid
- Stir well when reheating
