Chinese Tomato & Scrambled Egg Stir Fry (番茄炒蛋)
Around the World in 80 Eggs, day 15
Tomato and Egg Stir Fry is more than just a simple recipe – it’s a dish that brings comfort and warmth to your meal table in the easiest and most satisfying way.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up this classic Chinese stir fry that’s not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.
Try it tonight and experience the delicious magic of fresh tomatoes in every bite!
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About this recipe
What is Tomato and Egg Stir Fry?
Tomato and Egg Stir Fry (番茄炒蛋, fānqié chǎo dàn) is a beloved dish in Chinese cuisine, known for its simplicity and deliciousness.
It’s a humble stir-fry that pairs juicy tomatoes with scrambled eggs in a light yet flavourful sauce.
Don’t let its straightforward nature fool you – this dish packs a punch of comforting, natural sweetness from the tomatoes, balanced with the smooth texture of scrambled eggs.
A Dish That’s Close to My Heart
For many, this dish is a nostalgic comfort food. It’s one of those recipes that families often make when they need a quick, satisfying meal that doesn’t skimp on flavour.
Growing up, I often found myself turning to this recipe when I was short on time or just craving something warm and wholesome.
It’s a simple, reliable dish that never disappoints.
Why This Recipe Works
The secret to making the best Tomato and Egg Stir Fry is choosing high-quality tomatoes – think on-the-vine or beef tomatoes, which provide the perfect sweetness and juiciness.
But what truly elevates the dish is skipping the water that some recipes call for.
Instead, I add a pinch of salt to draw out the natural juices of the tomatoes, creating a rich, flavour-packed sauce.
The result? A mouthwatering dish that’s fresh, light, and comforting all at once.
What Makes This Dish So Great?
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 15 minutes, this stir-fry is perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutrient-Packed: Tomatoes are full of vitamins, and eggs provide protein – it’s a balanced meal in a bowl.
- Naturally Sweet and Savoury: With no added sugar or artificial flavours, this dish showcases the true essence of fresh, high-quality ingredients.
- Customizable: While the basic recipe is perfect as is, feel free to add herbs, spices, or other vegetables to make it your own!
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp neutral cooking oil
- 3 large tomatoes, roughly chopped
- 2 eggs, beaten
- Pinch of salt
- 1 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp sugar
- Handful of spring onions, finely chopped
Pair it with
Instructions
1. Scramble the Eggs
Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a frying pan over medium-high heat. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until 90% cooked.
Break up the egg pieces as they cook. Once done, remove the eggs from the pan and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic and Tomatoes
In the same pan, heat another tablespoon of cooking oil. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 60 seconds until fragrant.
Next, toss in the chopped tomatoes and add a pinch of salt. Let them cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Add Flavour
Stir in oyster sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of sugar. Mix well to combine with the softened tomatoes.
Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.
4. Combine Eggs and Tomatoes
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan, breaking up any large pieces. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Final Touches
Scatter chopped spring onions over the dish and give it a final stir. Turn off the heat and serve with steamed rice for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Tips
- No Water Needed: Avoid adding water to the pan to make the dish saucier. Doing so can dilute the flavour and make it too watery.
- Switch It Up: Add a pinch of curry powder for a fun twist and extra depth of flavour.
- Make It Heartier: For a more substantial meal, try adding cooked shredded chicken to the stir fry for an extra protein boost.
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of tomatoes for this dish?
Yes, but using ripe on-the-vine or beef tomatoes will give you the best natural sweetness and juiciness, making your stir fry more flavourful.
2. Can I add anything else to this dish?
Definitely! Feel free to add herbs like cilantro, or other vegetables like bell peppers or onions for extra texture and flavour.
3. Can I make this in advance?
While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the tomatoes and eggs ahead of time and cook them just before serving for a quick meal.
4. Is this dish suitable for vegans?
No, this recipe contains eggs. To make it vegan, you could try using a plant-based egg alternative.
5. What should I serve this with?
Tomato and Egg Stir Fry pairs perfectly with steamed rice, noodles, or even some crispy fried tofu on the side.
Video demonstration
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