Eggs deserve much more than to be scrambled up and served for breakfast. They’re cheap, quick to prepare and packed with nutrients. So, step up your egg game by adding a new tasty option to your regular rotation: Chinese steamed eggs. This egg dish boosts a silky smooth texture and a delicate rich taste. It’s also perfect for topping with savory ingredients like chopped scallions and soy sauce for a flavor kick. Oh, and I can’t forget about an easy recipe that cooks in the microwave in under 10 minutes! Here’s how to make steamed eggs the next time you want an egg dish that excites your taste buds.
What are Chinese steamed eggs?
Traditionally, this dish involves cooking a beaten egg mixture in a steamer until it sets. The result is a solid custard that’s topped with various condiments and enjoyed. It’s worth noting that Chinese steamed eggs are different from Korean steamed eggs as the former is cooked in a steamer, while the latter is prepared in a clay pot over the stove. What makes Chinese steamed eggs unique is the custard-like consistency that makes each bite better than the last.
Keen to try steamed eggs?
3 tips for preparing yummy steamed eggs
Although steamed eggs require very few ingredients, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind to ensure creamy and delicious results. Follow these three tips from a video posted on the Kind of Cooking YouTube channel.
1. Strain the beaten egg mixture.
Your desired recipe will likely call for whisking the eggs with water and/or various seasonings. After doing so, it’s a good idea to strain the mixture. This removes air bubbles so the egg custard becomes smooth once steamed.
2. Use plenty of water to produce enough steam.
Regardless of the steaming method you’re using, make sure there’s enough water to generate steam so the eggs cook thoroughly. Otherwise, you’ll be left with a runny egg dish.
3. Get creative with your toppings.
Once the eggs are steamed, top them with your favorite ingredients. Soy sauce, sesame oil and scallions are popular go-to’s. However, pickled veggies, cooked shrimp and chili oil are flavorful options too.
A Chinese steamed egg recipe worth trying
Ready to try Chinese steamed eggs at home? Use this recipe from YouTuber @trangskitchentable as it involves creating a water bath to steam the egg mixture in the microwave. This dish is ready to serve in just 10 minutes, and the liquid toppings perfectly absorb into the soft egg base. A clear winner whenever you’re in the mood for eggs!
Chinese Steamed Eggs
Ingredients:
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup water or broth
- ¼ tsp. salt
- Scallions
- Soy sauce or coconut aminos
- Chili oil
- Sesame oil
Directions:
- Whisk together eggs, salt and water or broth until combined. Strain through fine mesh sieve to remove any clumps.
- Pour egg mixture into heat-safe dish. Use spoon to remove any air bubbles. Cover with plastic wrap and prick holes in it using a toothpick.
- For water bath, add water baking dish until it surpasses where egg is inside bowl, but being careful not to overflow it. Remove the egg-filled bowl. (Note: This is a reference point for the water.)
- Microwave water until it’s boiling hot. Remove it from microwave and carefully place egg bowl in center of baking dish. Microwave at 50 percent power level 6 minutes. (Note: Keep in mind that the cooking time may vary depending on your microwave.)
- Once eggs are mostly set in the center, carefully remove from water bath. Top with sesame oil, soy sauce or coconut aminos, chili oil and scallions. Enjoy!
