Chinese Steamed Eggs (蒸蛋)
Around the World in 80 Eggs: day 35
These have a jiggly and silky texture, and the flavour savoury with soy sauce, sesame oil and chilli oil seeping into the egg when it's sliced through when cooked. It's also perfect for adjusting to your taste preference so you can top it with coriander, crispy shallots and also crunchy peanuts. Whatever you like really.
It's a super easy and quick dish, and they can be a side dish, a starter or even a breakfast on their own. Definitely give this a try if you're looking for an easy protein hit post working out.
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About this recipe
If you’ve never tried Chinese steamed eggs, you're in for a treat! This dish is a simple, yet delicious part of many Asian households, including my own.
Growing up, I enjoyed this comforting dish often, and now it’s something I love to make when I’m craving that nostalgic, homey feeling. Chinese steamed eggs are soft, silky, and full of flavour, making them a great option for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to prepare these eggs, including tips for perfecting their smooth texture and a few suggestions for toppings to really make them your own.
Why Chinese Steamed Eggs Are Special
At first glance, Chinese steamed eggs might seem like a basic dish, but there’s something truly magical about their texture.
When made right, they have a custardy smoothness that is hard to beat. The key is in the steaming process, which preserves the delicate fluffiness of the eggs, unlike scrambling them in a pan.
This dish also allows for endless customisation with toppings - whether you prefer the classic soy sauce and sesame oil combo, or want to get creative with crispy shallots, fresh herbs, or even crunchy peanuts.
Customising Your Chinese Steamed Eggs
One of the best things about this dish is that it's highly adaptable. While soy sauce and sesame oil are traditional, feel free to experiment with other toppings or seasonings to suit your taste.
You could add a drizzle of chilli oil for heat, sprinkle on some crispy shallots for crunch, or even mix in fresh herbs like coriander for extra freshness.
If you want to make it a more substantial meal, serve your Chinese steamed eggs over a bed of rice. The savoury egg custard pairs perfectly with a simple bowl of steamed jasmine or brown rice.
Why You Should Try This Recipe
Chinese steamed eggs are not only delicious but incredibly easy to make. With just a few ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that’s full of flavour and texture.
Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast, a light lunch, or a side dish to accompany your main course, this recipe has you covered.
I’ve made this dish countless times for myself and my family, and it always brings a sense of warmth and nostalgia. It’s a reminder that food doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious - it just needs to be made with love.
What You’ll Need
The ingredients for Chinese steamed eggs are simple, making this dish perfect when you're short on time but still want something comforting. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 large eggs: Fresh eggs are crucial for achieving that silky texture.
- Warm water or vegetable/chicken stock: The warm liquid helps the eggs cook evenly and maintain their soft texture.
- Seasoning: Soy sauce, sesame oil, and a dash of chilli oil are typically used for a savoury punch.
- Toppings: You can garnish the dish with chopped spring onions or your favourite crunchy toppings.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 250ml warm water or vegetable/chicken stock
For seasoning and toppings
- 1-2 tbsp light soy sauce, depending on preference
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tbsp chilli oil
- chopped spring onions
Pair it with
Instructions
1. Whisk the eggs
In a mixing bowl, crack your eggs and whisk them together until fully combined. For a creamy texture, gradually whisk in warm water or chicken stock. Using warm liquid ensures the eggs cook evenly and prevents toughness.
2. Sieve for smoothness
Pour the egg mixture into a separate bowl through a fine mesh sieve to remove any lumps. This step is crucial for achieving a silky smooth texture. Use a spoon to gently scoop off any air bubbles that may have formed.
3. Prepare for steaming
Wrap the bowl with cling film and place it into a steaming apparatus. You can use a bamboo steamer basket over simmering water or a heat-resistant bowl set over a wok. Ensure the water does not touch the bottom of the bowl or steamer. Cover with a lid.
4. Steam the eggs
Cook the eggs on low heat for about 12 minutes. If you prefer a creamier, jiggly texture, you can reduce the cooking time. To check for doneness, gently nudge the bowl - the eggs should wobble slightly but remain mostly firm.
5. Add seasoning and garnish
Once steamed, carefully remove the bowl from the heat. Gently score the surface of the egg custard with a small knife to enhance the presentation. Spoon over your favourite seasonings, such as soy sauce or sesame oil, and sprinkle with chopped spring onions or any other toppings you like.
6. Serve and enjoy
Serve your steamed egg custard over a bed of steamed rice for a light meal or as a flavourful side dish to complement any main course. This dish is perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner!
FAQs
Can I use regular water instead of stock?
Yes, water works just as well! Using stock adds extra depth of flavour, but it’s not essential.
How do I know when the eggs are done?
The eggs should have a smooth, custardy texture. If they jiggle slightly but are firm, they’re ready. You can also test with a toothpick.
Can I add other ingredients to the egg mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to add minced meat, seafood, or vegetables to the mixture before steaming for a more filling dish.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
You can steam the eggs ahead and reheat them gently in the steamer or microwave. Freshly steamed eggs, however, offer the best texture.
How can I prevent the eggs from becoming watery?
Ensure the egg mixture is properly strained and avoid overcooking, as this can cause them to become watery.
Video demonstration
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This recipe is featured in my debut cookbook "Have You Eaten?", if you liked this recipe, then I'd encourage you to buy my cookbook for even more exclusive and delicious recipes!
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