1. Rinse the Job's tears and rice. Soak the Job's tears in water for at least 2 hours beforehand. Soak the rice for 30 minutes beforehand, though soaking is optional.
2. Peel and wash the Chinese yam, dice it, and soak in salt water to prevent discoloration.
3. Split the fried red dates beforehand; they will be added to the porridge later.
4. Do not discard the water used to soak the Job's tears. Pour it into a pot, add fresh water, bring to a boil, then add the Job's tears. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.