Cantonese Congee: Boat Congee (Sampan Porridge)

Boat Congee, also known as Sampan Porridge, is a traditional dish from Guangzhou’s water towns. With its silky porridge base and a mix of fresh ingredients such as fish slices, peanuts, and squid, this comforting Cantonese food is warm, nourishing, and full of Lingnan flavor. It is a classic congee that represents the soul of Guangzhou cuisine.

1. Origin and History

Boat Congee originated from the water people of the Pearl River Delta in Guangzhou, also known as the Tanka community. Fishermen sold this dish directly from small sampan boats, using freshly caught seafood. It reflects both the wisdom of making use of local ingredients and the vibrant street food culture of old Guangzhou.

2. Cultural Significance

Praised as the “King of Guangzhou Congee,” Boat Congee is a symbol of Cantonese breakfast and street food culture. It represents the inclusive and lively spirit of the water-town lifestyle and remains an iconic dish in Guangzhou food traditions.

3. Ingredients and Flavors

The base is slow-cooked white rice porridge until soft and creamy. Key toppings include fresh fish slices, shrimp, squid, peanuts, fried crisps, and chopped scallions. The colorful mix of textures makes this Cantonese congee rich, layered, and visually appealing.

4. Cooking Process

Prepared with the unique “sheng gun” (quick-cooking) method, the porridge base is simmered until smooth, then fresh ingredients are added and cooked instantly in the hot broth. This technique ensures the seafood stays tender while the porridge remains silky.

5. Taste and Texture

The porridge base melts in your mouth with a light, fresh sweetness. Fish slices are tender, peanuts add crunch, and the combination is warm and soothing. Each spoonful offers a delightful surprise with layers of texture and flavor.

6. How to Eat It

Boat Congee is typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a late-night snack. It pairs perfectly with Chinese fried dough sticks (youtiao) or Cheung Fun rice noodle rolls, making it a comforting Cantonese dish that restores energy after a long day.

7. Where to Try It

You can easily find Boat Congee in Guangzhou’s congee shops or tea houses. Popular local favorites include Chen Tian Ji and Wu Zhan Ji in Liwan District, long-established restaurants highly rated by locals (around 15–30 RMB per bowl). When ordering, simply say “Boat Congee,” and if you like extra crunch, ask for “more fried crisps.”

8. Travel Tips

In English, this dish is called “Boat Congee” or “Sampan Porridge.” It is a light but flavorful Cantonese food. Travelers can season it with a sprinkle of white pepper or fresh coriander to suit their taste.

9. Easy Homemade Version

At home, you can recreate a simple version by boiling leftover rice with water into a porridge base, then adding cooked fish slices, peanuts, and store-bought fried crisps. With just a few steps, you can enjoy an authentic homemade Boat Congee.

Come and try a steaming bowl of Boat Congee in Guangzhou! This Cantonese delicacy is more than just a meal—it’s a taste of the city’s water-town history. Be sure to add it to your must-try Chinese food list!