Indulge in an easy-to-make lunch that’s rich, silky, and a classic complement to all kinds of Chinese dishes.
How many ways can you cook an egg? Well, this recipe shares one of the most iconic methods that results in a smooth umami custard. Also known as “water egg,” the Chinese steamed egg is a classic dish that has been circulating in Asia for centuries.
Some describe it as a custardy cross between an omelet and egg drop soup. Topped with dark and rich soy sauce and garnished with sliced scallions, this is a different way to serve your eggs and is sure to satisfy, whether as a side dish or light lunch.
Although it looks fancy, the recipe is straightforward and easy to follow. As long as you have a heatproof bowl and a steamer pot, you’re all set to transform two humble eggs into a luscious, velvety delight. Made by whisking eggs thoroughly and then steaming them in a shallow dish, Chinese steamed eggs are a simple yet elevated bowl of beauty that can be served for lunch or dinner.
Is Chinese Steamed Egg Healthy?
Since steamed eggs contain a decent balance of protein, good fats, and other nutrients, they can be considered a healthy dish. If, however, you need to reduce your salt intake, I suggest using both low-sodium soy sauce and broth. Likewise, if you or a loved one can’t have wheat, use gluten-free soy sauce instead of regular.
To boost the protein content, use chicken bone broth specifically. Another way to increase the health factor of this dish is to serve it with brown rice, which supplies a boost of fiber, magnesium, manganese, and B vitamins.
Are There Other Styles Of Steamed Egg?
While this recipe reveals tips and tricks for Chinese steamed egg, there’s also a Korean variation called gyeran-jjim. It’s traditionally made with an earthenware pot and includes fish broth and sauce instead of chicken broth. The Korean version turns out light and fluffy like a soufflé, whereas the Chinese steamed egg ends up creamy and custard-like. Both, however, are usually topped with sesame oil, soy sauce, and chopped green onions.
How do I store leftovers?
If there are leftovers, simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. I don’t recommend freezing, as this could ruin the velvety texture of the eggs. To reheat, cover the dish with a damp paper towel and microwave it for 30 seconds to 1 minute, until it’s warm all the way through.
Serving Suggestions
Golden and luxurious steamed egg can make your kitchen feel like a classy Chinese restaurant in just 20 minutes. Pair it with some amazing Asian-inspired sides, such as Air-Fryer Wontons, Baked Egg Rolls, or Air-Fryer Potstickers. Additionally, you can brighten the whole table with a light Asian Healthy Broccoli Salad, Chinese Chicken Salad, or Vegetable Fried Rice.
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- Warm water or low-sodium chicken broth as needed
- 2 pinches salt
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 3/4 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sliced scallions optional
Instructions
- Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk until well combined. Pour the eggs into a measuring cup to measure their volume. Then, add warm water or broth in a 2:1 ratio relative to the volume of the eggs. Add the salt and gently mix.
- Pour the egg mixture through a fine mesh sieve into a heatproof bowl to remove bubbles.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid, leaving a small vent for steam.
- Bring water to a simmer in a steamer pot.
- Transfer the bowl to the steamer and steam over medium-low heat for 10-12 minutes, until the eggs are set but still slightly jiggly.
- Carefully remove the bowl from the steamer. Drizzle sesame oil and soy sauce over the steamed eggs.
- Garnish with sliced scallions, if desired, and serve warm.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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