Chinese steamed eggs

Chinese steamed eggs
Chinese steamed egg topped with broth and other ingredients
Alternative names	Water egg
Place of origin	China
Region or state	Chinese-speaking areas
Main ingredients	water, or chicken broth, scallion, century egg, ] or dried shrimp
Variations	Chawanmushi, Gyeran jjim
Cookbook:Chinese steamed eggs  Chinese steamed eggs

Chinese steamed eggs or water egg is a Chinese home-style dish found all over China. Eggs are beaten to a consistency similar to that used for an omelette and then steamed.

Preparation

The eggs are beaten and water or chicken broth added to create a more tender texture and to add extra flavor.

Other solid ingredients may also be added to the mixture. The egg mixture is then poured into a dish, which is then placed in a steamer then steamed until fully cooked. The eggs should be steamed until just firm, so that the texture of the eggs is still smooth and silky. A plate is usually placed on top of the bowl containing the egg mixture and left on while the egg is being steamed. Uncapped steamed eggs will have water on top of the finished dish due to the steam.

Tips

A good ratio of water to eggs would be 1.5:1 Also for more flavour add some chicken broth,sesame oil or soy sauce.

Cooking Time

Using four eggs, average time is 10 minutes with water, 7 minutes with chicken broth. However, this is in addition to the time needed for pre-boiling water.

Comparison

The closest Western equivalent food is a savory custard. If eaten cold, it is like Jello, without sugar (unless added).

Variety

Home made versions generally include scallion, century egg, or dried shrimp. These additional ingredients are added to the egg mixture before steaming. It can also be enjoyed with soy sauce. The taste is usually savory (as opposed to a sweet custard).

Other Cooking Methods

This same dish can be cooked in a microwave, or in a pressure cooker. Both methods take less time, although the end product may not be of the same quality.

See also

Wikimedia Commons has media related to Chinese steamed eggs.

• List of egg dishes
• Chawanmushi - A Japanese dish which author thinks may bear some resemblance to Chinese steamed eggs
• Gyeran jjim - Korean steamed eggs