Cinnamon-Walnut Congee

Cinnamon-Walnut Congee - makes 3-4 servings
This warm, nutty cinnamon cereal takes advantage of the flavors and health benefits of walnuts. In northern China, walnuts are dubbed "the king of dried fruits".

INGREDIENTS
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup chopped pecans
1/2 cup uncooked short-grain rice, rinsed and drained
1/4 teaspoon salt (optional)
4-5 cups water
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, or to taste
1-2 teaspoons honey or other natural sweetener, or to taste (optional)
DIRECTIONS
1. Combine the walnuts, pecans, rice, salt (if using), and water in a pot.
2. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer, covered with the lid slightly ajar, for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add a little extra water if the congee is drying out and/or threatening to stick to the bottom of the pot.
3. Add the cinnamon and cook for 2-3 more minutes.
4. Add the honey, if desired, then serve. 
ESPECIALLY GOOD FOR
Anyone with cold extremities, weakness, impotence, diarrhea, low back pain, poor memory, insomnia, or frequent nighttime urination.
FOR THOSE FAMILIAR WITH CHINESE MEDICINE
This dish harmonizes the Heart and Kidneys, augments the Kidney essence, and strengthens the Spleen qi.

Ancient Wisdom, Modern Kitchen, by Yuan Wang, Warren Sheir, and Mika Ono, pg. 197

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