Juk, the Korean Rice Porridge

Juk is a Korean rice porridge, a comforting one bowl meal eaten for breakfast, when you are under the weather, or anytime you need something gentle. Traditional juk starts with rice that has been soaked, then cooked slowly in a flavorful stock until the grains break down into a loose, creamy texture. Chicken, seafood, pumpkin, and mushroom are all common variations. The trick is constant stirring toward the end so the bottom does not scorch and the starches release evenly. Finish with toasted sesame oil, a pinch of salt, scallions, and a jammy or raw egg yolk stirred in at the table.