Authentic Chinese Steamed Eggs: A Delightful Egg Custard Dish

Chinese Steamed Eggs, also known as 蒸水蛋 (Zhēng Shuǐ Dàn), are a traditional Chinese dish that is beloved for its silky smooth texture and delicate flavor. This simple yet elegant dish is made by gently steaming a mixture of eggs and water until they are set to perfection. It’s a popular comfort food in Chinese cuisine and is often served as part of a dim sum spread or enjoyed as a light and nutritious meal. In this recipe, we’ll explore how to make authentic Chinese Steamed Eggs at home, along with variations to suit different preferences, including keto and low-carb options.

Ingredients

• 3 large eggs
• 1 1/2 cups water or broth (chicken or vegetable for added flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1 tablespoon light soy sauce (for garnish)
• 1 scallion, finely chopped (for garnish)
• A few drops of sesame oil (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Steaming Equipment: Fill a large steamer pot or wok with water and bring it to a simmer over medium heat. Place a steaming rack or tray in the pot to hold the bowl of eggs.
2. Beat the Eggs: In a mixing bowl, crack the eggs and beat them gently with a whisk or fork until well combined.
3. Add Seasonings: Stir in the water or broth, sesame oil, and salt into the beaten eggs until evenly distributed.
4. Steam the Eggs: Pour the egg mixture into a heatproof bowl or dish that fits comfortably inside the steamer pot. Cover the bowl with a lid or aluminum foil.
5. Steam the Eggs: Carefully place the bowl of eggs onto the steaming rack or tray in the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and steam the eggs over medium-low heat for 12-15 minutes, or until the eggs are set and slightly jiggly in the center.
6. Check for Doneness: To test if the eggs are cooked, insert a toothpick or knife into the center of the eggs. If it comes out clean, the eggs are done.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once the eggs are cooked, remove them from the steamer and garnish with chopped scallions. Drizzle with a few drops of sesame oil and light soy sauce for added flavor.
8. Serve Warm: Serve the Chinese Steamed Eggs immediately as a standalone dish or as part of a larger meal. Enjoy the smooth and custardy texture with steamed rice or your favorite side dishes.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Consistency: The texture of Chinese Steamed Eggs should be silky and smooth, similar to a custard. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to achieve the desired consistency.
• Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to add other seasonings or ingredients to customize the flavor of the eggs. Consider adding minced ginger, garlic, or even a splash of rice wine for extra depth of flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
• Serving Suggestions: Chinese Steamed Eggs can be served as a side dish or appetizer. They pair well with steamed vegetables, stir-fried dishes, or as a topping for noodles or congee.

Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options

• Broth Substitute: Replace the water or broth with unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk for a keto-friendly version of the recipe.
• Soy Sauce Substitute: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to reduce the carb content of the dish.
• Salt Adjustment: Adjust the amount of salt to taste or omit it altogether for a low-sodium option.

Chinese Steamed Eggs are a classic dish that highlights the simplicity and elegance of Chinese cuisine. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, these silky smooth eggs are sure to satisfy your cravings. Plus, with the option to customize the seasonings and ingredients, you can easily adapt this recipe to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. Give this recipe a try and experience the delight of homemade Chinese Steamed Eggs today!