Chinese steamed eggs

Chinese Steamed Eggs

Chinese steamed eggs, also known as "zhēng dàn" (蒸蛋) in Mandarin, is a popular traditional Chinese dish. It is a simple yet delicious dish made by steaming beaten eggs with various ingredients. This article will provide a detailed recipe for making Chinese steamed eggs, along with some interesting facts and variations.

Ingredients

To make Chinese steamed eggs, you will need the following ingredients:

• 4 eggs
• 1 cup of water
• 1 teaspoon of soy sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon of salt
• 1/2 teaspoon of sesame oil
• Optional: chopped scallions, minced garlic, or other desired ingredients for flavoring

Instructions

Follow these steps to make Chinese steamed eggs:

1. In a mixing bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly.
2. Add water, soy sauce, salt, and sesame oil to the beaten eggs. Mix well.
3. Strain the egg mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any lumps.
4. Pour the strained mixture into a heatproof dish or individual serving bowls.
5. If desired, add chopped scallions, minced garlic, or other flavoring ingredients on top.
6. Prepare a steamer by filling a pot with water and placing a steaming rack inside.
7. Place the dish or bowls with the egg mixture onto the steaming rack.
8. Cover the pot with a lid and steam over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the eggs are set.
9. Carefully remove the dish or bowls from the steamer using oven mitts or a towel.
10. Serve the Chinese steamed eggs hot as a main dish or as a side dish with rice or noodles.

Variations

Chinese steamed eggs can be customized with various ingredients to suit different tastes. Here are some popular variations:

• Salted Egg Steamed Eggs: Replace regular eggs with salted duck eggs for a unique and savory flavor.
• Century Egg Steamed Eggs: Add sliced century eggs, which are preserved duck eggs, for a rich and creamy texture.
• Seafood Steamed Eggs: Incorporate cooked shrimp, crab meat, or other seafood into the egg mixture for a seafood twist.
• Vegetable Steamed Eggs: Mix in finely chopped vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms to add color and nutrients.

Interesting Facts

• Chinese steamed eggs are often considered a comfort food and are commonly served to children and the elderly due to their soft and delicate texture.
• Steaming is a popular cooking method in Chinese cuisine as it helps retain the natural flavors and nutrients of the ingredients.
• Chinese steamed eggs are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed as a breakfast, lunch, or dinner option.
• This dish is also known as "egg custard" in some regions, as the texture of the steamed eggs resembles a smooth custard.

External Links

For more information about Chinese steamed eggs, you can visit the following resources:

• Chinese Steamed Eggs - Recipe and Variations
• The Art of Steaming in Chinese Cuisine