🍲 Why is pork belly added to Jidi Congee? Let me explain it all!

✨ Preface: A must-try dish at a Guangdong porridge stall

Hey fellow foodies~ When it comes to porridge, the first thing that comes to my mind is a bowl of warm and filling Jidi porridge ! 🤤
When you walk into a Guangdong teahouse or porridge stall, Jidi porridge is always on the list, and is popular for breakfast or supper.
But have you noticed? Almost all "authentic" Jidi porridge contains pig liver . So, the question is: why is pig liver added to Jidi porridge?

📜 Origin of the name: It means "passing the imperial examination"

The name "Jidi Congee" is full of auspicious meaning.

• "Jidi" originally meant "passing the imperial examination", symbolizing success and fame.
• The Cantonese people pay special attention to auspicious words, so they named this bowl of porridge "Jidi Congee", which means good luck, a smooth career, and success in studies and exams after eating it. 🎓✨

Therefore, this bowl of porridge is not only food, but also embodies the Guangdong people's expectations for success and happiness.

🥢 Combination of traditional ingredients

A typical Jidi porridge usually contains:

• Pig liver 🐖
• Pork kidney 🥩
• Rice Noodles 🍲
  Some regions also add fish or pork slices, but the "three treasures" combination (pork runny nose, pork kidney, and rice noodles) is the most classic.

These ingredients not only have outstanding flavors, but also carry symbolic meanings.

🐷 Why is it necessary to add pig run?

1. Symbolizes prosperity and wealth

• The Cantonese people believe in "good food, good meaning".
• The word "Run" in "Zhu Run" means "moisturizing and smooth" in Cantonese, implying a smooth life and abundant wealth. 💰
• Putting it in "Jidi Congee" means wishing the diners good luck in everything.

2. Layers of texture and flavor

• The pork run has a tender texture and a unique aroma.
• Combined with the smooth porridge base, the softness and fragrance create a strong contrast when you put it in your mouth. 😋
• A little shredded ginger or chopped green onion can remove the fishy smell and enhance the flavor, making the whole bowl of porridge taste better.

3. Rich in nutrition

• Pig's milk is rich in iron and vitamin A, which helps to replenish blood and nourish the eyes. 👀
• In traditional concepts, pig meat is an excellent product for "tonifying the body" and is especially suitable for people with high physical needs.

4. History and Customs

• Since ancient times, Cantonese people have liked to add pork offal to porridge, such as pork bone porridge and rice noodle porridge.
• As the most common and easily available type, pig run naturally becomes the standard ingredient in "Jidi Congee".

🌏 Regional trends and cultural background

• Guangzhou : It is the birthplace of Jidi Congee, which is famous for its delicate porridge base like rice milk and fresh ingredients.
• Hong Kong🇭🇰: Tea restaurants and porridge shops are common, making them a popular choice for breakfast and late-night snacks.
• Macau🎰 : Also inherited the Cantonese eating habits, Jidi porridge is also popular.

As Guangdong immigrants went global, Jidi porridge was also brought to overseas Chinese communities, becoming a representative of the "taste of home".

💡 Editor's Summary

I think the reason why pig run is added to Jidi porridge is not just because it tastes good, but also because of the meaning and culture behind it. 💭

• The character "Run" brings good omen and echoes the auspicious name "Jidi".
• In terms of taste, the pork is tender and smooth, which makes the porridge more layered.
• Nutritionally, pig meat nourishes the blood and body, which is in line with the traditional wisdom of "food supplements".

So, without Zhu Run, Jiudi Congee seems to be missing its soul. ✨

🎤 Let me tell you

👉 What's your favorite porridge topping? Pork loin? Pork kidney? Or rice noodle intestines? Leave a comment and let me know! 📩