1. Place Chopsticks or a Wooden Spoon Across the Top of the Pot
According to folk wisdom, when cooking porridge, place a pair of chopsticks or a wooden spoon across the top of the pot. This method helps prevent foam from spilling over as the wooden utensils do not absorb water and have a lower temperature than 100°C, causing the bubbles to burst.

A Helpful Tip to Prevent Porridge from Boiling Over
2. Add Sesame Oil to the Porridge
Just add a few drops of sesame oil to the porridge and reduce the heat when it starts to boil. Sesame oil has a lower surface tension than water, creating a film that prevents bubbles from rising.
3. Add Rice When the Water is Warm
Soak the rice beforehand, heat the water to around 50 – 60°C, and then add the rice. This gradual absorption of water by the starch in the rice prevents the formation of too much foam.
4. Use a Rice Cooker for Porridge
A rice cooker is a convenient option to evenly cook porridge without worrying about it boiling over. Rinse and soak the rice for 30 minutes, then add it to the rice cooker with warm water at about 40 – 50°C. Cook on the “Cook” setting for 15 – 20 minutes, then switch to “Warm” and let it sit for another 30 – 45 minutes for the porridge to soften.

An Easy Way to Prevent Porridge from Boiling Over: Just Add a Spoonful of Oil
5. Add Salt to the Porridge from the Start

A Simple Trick for Porridge: Add Salt to Prevent Boiling Over, Speed up Softening, and Enhance Flavor
A handy tip is to add salt at the beginning of cooking porridge. Salt helps regulate the boiling temperature, reducing excessive foaming, and weakens pectin molecules in the rice, causing the grains to soften faster. Additionally, salt enhances the flavor, making the porridge tastier and more savory.
With these tips, you can easily cook porridge without worrying about it boiling over, ensuring a soft and tasty dish that retains its nutritional value and flavor.
How Long Should You Marinate Meat to Absorb Flavors?
The key to a delicious dish is not just about the length of marination, but the art of timing it perfectly. The flavors and spices need time to work their magic and infuse into the meat, creating a harmonious blend. This crucial step determines the ultimate taste sensation, so take the time to let those flavors sink in and work their wonders.