Black Sesame Porridge

 Black Sesame Porridge is more than just a nourishing breakfast—it’s a warm, velvety dish steeped in tradition across East Asia. Whether you're wandering a bustling morning market in Vietnam, navigating side streets in Seoul, or exploring ancient alleyways in Beijing, the earthy aroma of this subtly sweet porridge is never far away.  Made from finely ground black sesame seeds—tiny, jet-black gems from the Sesamum indicum plant—this comforting bowl is packed with antioxidants, healthy fats, and a deep, nutty flavor that's as satisfying as it's healthy.

Its creamy texture makes each spoonful feel indulgent, yet it’s incredibly easy on the stomach—perfect for slow mornings or a gentle reset.  I remember the first time I tried it from a small vendor tucked behind a lantern-lit alley in Hanoi; it was slightly warm from the midday sun, and the hint of sweetness felt like a quiet hug.  Topped with a swirl of coconut milk or a sprinkle of crushed peanuts, it becomes both nostalgic and novel.

As black sesame seeds gain popularity worldwide, this dish is finding a new audience—one that appreciates ancient ingredients with a modern focus on wellness and warmth.

 

Black Sesame Sweet Rice Porridge

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup black sesame seeds
• 1/3 cup sweet rice (glutinous rice)
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp almonds or any nut of your choice
• Optional toppings: sliced jujube, roasted nuts

Directions:

1.    Preparing the Sesame Seeds:

2.    Rinse the black sesame seeds and let them drain for about 20 minutes.

3.    In a dry skillet over low heat, toast the seeds for about 4 minutes, stirring constantly.

4.    You'll know they're ready when they begin to "jump" or pop slightly. Remove from heat.

5.    Preparing the Rice:

6.    Rinse the sweet rice thoroughly and drain it well.

7.    Cooking the Porridge:

8.    In a crockpot, combine the toasted sesame seeds, drained sweet rice, nuts, and 4 cups of water.

9.    Cook on low overnight or on high for about 3 hours until the rice is soft, and the mixture has thickened.

10.                       Seasoning and Blending:

11.                       Add salt and stir well.  For a smoother texture, use a hand-held blender to blend the porridge until creamy.

12.                       Serving:

13.                       Ladle into bowls and top with sliced jujube or roasted nuts as desired.  Enjoy warm.

 

Stovetop Version

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup black sesame seeds
• 1/3 cup sweet rice (glutinous rice)
• 4 cups water
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp almonds or any nuts of your choice
• Optional toppings: sliced jujube, roasted nuts

Directions:

1.    Toasting the Sesame Seeds:

2.    Rinse and drain the sesame seeds.  Let sit for 20 minutes.

3.    Dry toast in a skillet over low heat, stirring constantly until it starts to pop (about 4 minutes).  Set aside.

4.    Preparing the Rice:

5.    Rinse the sweet rice thoroughly and drain it well.

6.    Cooking the Porridge:

7.    In a medium pot, combine the toasted sesame seeds, sweet rice, nuts, and water.

8.    Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

9.    Cover and simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the rice is tender and the porridge has thickened.

10.                       Finishing and Serving:

11.                       Stir in salt.  Use a hand blender for a smooth texture.

12.                       Serve warm with toppings like sliced jujube or roasted nuts.

 

Instant Pot Version

Ingredients: (same as above)

Directions:

1.    Toasting the Sesame Seeds:

2.    Rinse, drain, and toast the black sesame seeds as described above.  Set aside.

3.    Preparing the Rice:

4.    Rinse and drain the sweet rice.

5.    Pressure Cooking:

6.    In the Instant Pot, add sesame seeds, rice, nuts, and 4 cups of water.

7.    Close the lid, set the valve to “Sealing,” and cook on High Pressure for 15 minutes.

8.    Let the pressure release naturally for 15 minutes, then quickly release any remaining pressure.

9.    Finishing and Serving:

10.                       Open the lid and stir in the salt.  Blend to achieve a creamy consistency, if desired.

11.                       Serve warm with your choice of toppings.