Century Egg with Silken Tofu
Century eggs are considered a delicacy in Chinese cuisine. These eggs, black in appearance once peeled, have a bold, unique flavour that can be compared to something like blue cheese — both are acquired tastes, loved for their strong, funky profiles. Just like how blue cheese is rich, creamy, and slightly pungent, century eggs yolks have an intense umami flavour and the whites are more mild but with a smooth, jelly-like texture.
With something already do flavourful and intense in flavour, it's best paired with something more mild. Here, I've combined it with silken tofu to make a simple, chilled dish that's perfect for summer. The contrast between the smooth tofu and the century egg’s strong taste, balanced with the sauce, makes it a refreshing yet satisfying dish.
You can also try century eggs with plain congee as it's also a classic Chinese food combo that's loved by many.
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About this recipe
Ingredients
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp neutral cooking oil
- 2 clove garlic, finely minced
- 1-2 spring onions, finely chopped
- 1 red chilli, finely chopped
- 1 block silken tofu, chilled
- 1-2 century eggs, peeled and sliced
- 1 tbsp light soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1/2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp granulated sugar
Pair it with
Instructions
- Carefully remove the silken tofu from its packaging. Place it on a plate and drain any excess liquid. You can lightly press the tofu with a paper towel to remove some moisture, but be careful as silken tofu is delicate. Slice it up if you'd like to help the sauce better mix in once added later.
- Peel the century eggs and cut them into small, bite-sized pieces. Place them next to/around the silken tofu and set aside.
- Place the chopped spring onions, garlic and chillies in a small heat-proof bowl.
- Heat up a small frying pan with the cooking oil until gently smoking and carefully pour over the aromatics. This will cook them quickly and release their fragrance. Give it a stir.
- Now add to the bowl with the aromatics all the seasoning. Stir to combine everything.
- Pour this mixed sauce all over the tofu and century egg and serve immediately.
Optional: add a sprinkle of fried shallots and fresh coriander for added texture and flavour if desired.
Video demonstration
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