Are you ready to take your culinary adventures to the next level? Look no further than the humble century egg! This ancient Chinese delicacy has been a staple in many Asian cuisines for centuries, and its creamy, savory flavor is sure to intrigue even the most discerning palates. But what exactly is a century egg, you ask? Simply put, it’s an egg that’s been fermented for several months (or even years!) in a mixture of clay, ash, and salt, which gives it a unique texture and flavor.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different ways to use century eggs in your cooking. From savory stir-fries to refreshing salads, from comforting soups to decadent desserts, there’s something for every adventurous foodie on this list. So grab a pen and paper (or your phone), and get ready to add some serious excitement to your recipe repertoire!
Century Egg and Tofu Salad
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of century egg with the tender texture of silken tofu, all wrapped up in a zesty dressing. Perfect as a light lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 century egg (also known as pidan egg), peeled and sliced
– 1 block silken tofu, drained and crumbled
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. In a medium bowl, combine century egg slices, tofu crumbles, and chopped scallions.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( preparation only)
Spicy Century Egg Stir-Fry
Elevate your stir-fry game with this bold and savory dish that combines the rich flavor of century eggs with a spicy kick. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 century eggs, sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
3. Add century eggs; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up with a spatula as needed.
4. Add red pepper flakes; stir-fry for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Century Egg Congee with Minced Pork
This traditional Chinese congee recipe combines the creamy texture of century eggs with the savory flavor of minced pork, making for a comforting and filling meal. Perfect for a chilly day or as a pick-me-up any time.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups of uncooked white rice
– 4 cups of water
– 1/2 cup of century egg (preserved in soy sauce and clay), chopped
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 pound of minced pork
– Salt to taste
– Scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the rice and cook it with 4 cups of fresh water in a large pot over medium heat until it becomes a creamy congee.
3. Add the chopped century egg, vegetable oil, onion, garlic, and minced pork to the congee. Stir well.
4. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes (including soaking time)
Century Egg and Pickled Ginger Sushi Rolls
Experience the bold flavors of Asia with this innovative recipe, combining century egg’s creamy texture with the tangy zip of pickled ginger. Perfect for adventurous foodies!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked sushi rice
– 1/2 cup century egg, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the nori sheet into desired roll size.
3. Lay a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place chopped century egg and pickled ginger in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame oil.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( preparation + assembly)
Century Egg and Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this unexpected combination of creamy avocado, savory century egg, and crispy bread. The rich flavors and textures will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 century egg (or equivalent amount of preserved egg), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: red pepper flakes for added spice
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Arrange the sliced century egg on top of the avocado.
4. Sprinkle salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Century Egg and Cucumber Salad with Sesame Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the creamy richness of century eggs with the cooling crunch of cucumber, all tied together by a nutty sesame dressing. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 century eggs, peeled and diced
– 1 large cucumber, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until well combined.
2. In a large bowl, combine diced century eggs and sliced cucumber.
3. Pour the sesame dressing over the egg-cucumber mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Century Egg and Shrimp Dumplings
Experience the harmonious balance of creamy century eggs and succulent shrimp in these bite-sized dumplings, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of round wonton wrappers (about 20-24 pieces)
– 2 large shrimp, peeled and chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of century egg yolk (or substitute with soft-boiled egg yolk)
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine chopped shrimp, garlic, century egg yolk, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Mix well.
2. Lay a wonton wrapper on a clean surface. Place a small spoonful of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
3. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point. Press the edges together to seal the dumpling.
4. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
5. Cook dumplings in boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or steam them for 10-12 minutes, until they float to the surface.
6. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Century Egg and Pork Belly Stew
A rich and savory stew that combines the creamy, custard-like texture of century eggs with the unctuous flavor of pork belly. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 century eggs
– 1 lb pork belly, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the pork belly and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth, soy sauce, sugar, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
6. Return the pork belly to the pot and add the century eggs.
7. Simmer for 1 hour or until the pork is tender and the century eggs are creamy.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Century Egg and Kimchi Fried Rice
This recipe combines the creamy richness of century eggs with the spicy kick of kimchi, all wrapped up in a savory fried rice dish. Perfect for adventurous eaters looking to spice up their mealtime routine.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup diced century egg
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the onion aside, then add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, until heated through.
5. Add the chopped kimchi and century egg to the rice. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, until everything is well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Century Egg and Mushroom Risotto
Elevate your risotto game with this unique fusion of creamy Arborio rice and savory century egg, paired with earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (e.g., cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 century egg, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add Arborio rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add sliced mushrooms and century egg, stirring to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Century Egg and Spinach Soup
This creamy soup combines the rich, savory flavor of century eggs with the earthy sweetness of spinach, creating a unique and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large century eggs, peeled and chopped
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the chopped century eggs, chicken broth, spinach leaves, garlic, and soy sauce. Stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional spinach leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Century Egg and Scallion Pancakes
This recipe combines the savory flavors of century eggs with the crispy texture of scallion pancakes, creating a unique and delicious snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this tasty treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– 1/4 cup century egg, diced
– 2 scallions, thinly sliced
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in warm water to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth.
4. Divide the dough into small balls and flatten each ball into a disk shape.
5. Brush the surface with vegetable oil and cook in a pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Top pancakes with diced century egg and scallion slices.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes per batch
Century Egg and Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Elevate your wrap game with this unique combination of creamy century eggs, savory chicken, and fresh lettuce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked chicken breast
– 1/4 cup century egg, chopped
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, arugula, spinach)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and olive oil.
2. Slice cooked chicken breast into thin strips and toss with the soy-olive oil mixture.
3. Place a portion of chicken onto a large lettuce leaf.
4. Top with chopped century egg, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (including prep time)
Enjoy your delicious Century Egg and Chicken Lettuce Wraps!
Century Egg and Noodle Soup with Bok Choy
This hearty soup combines the creamy richness of century eggs with the savory flavors of noodles and bok choy, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 century eggs, peeled and sliced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup cooked noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– 2 cups bok choy, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili flakes for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and century eggs; cook for an additional 2 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Add the cooked noodles and bok choy; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Century Egg and Garlic Butter Pasta
This recipe combines the creamy richness of garlic butter with the savory, umami flavor of century eggs, adding a unique twist to traditional pasta dishes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 2 tbsp. unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup century egg yolk, crumbled
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add crumbled century egg yolk to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic butter. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through.
4. Combine cooked pasta and garlic-century egg mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Century Egg and Sweet Potato Fritters
These crispy fritters combine the creamy richness of century eggs with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, making for a unique and addictive snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup century egg (pasted), finely chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, chopped century egg, flour, salt, pepper, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add water to form a thick batter.
3. Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small portions of the batter into the hot oil, about 1/4 cup each.
5. Fry for 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Century Egg and Eggplant Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the creamy richness of century eggs with the tender sweetness of eggplant, creating a unique and flavorful stir-fry dish. Perfect for adventurous foodies looking to try something new!
Ingredients:
– 2 century eggs, sliced into thin wedges
– 1 large eggplant, cut into bite-sized cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add eggplant cubes and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add sliced onion and minced garlic; stir-fry until onion is translucent.
4. Add century egg wedges; stir-fry for 1 minute to combine with vegetables.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
7. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Century Egg and Mango Summer Rolls
Experience the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors with these Century Egg and Mango Summer Rolls, perfect for hot summer days. The creamy, umami-rich Century Egg pairs surprisingly well with the juicy sweetness of mango, all wrapped up in crispy rice paper.
Ingredients:
– 1 package rice paper sheets
– 2 ripe mangos, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup Century Egg (preserved egg), sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Fill a large bowl with warm water.
2. Soak a rice paper sheet in the water for about 10 seconds, until soft and pliable.
3. Place a few slices of mango, Century Egg, and cilantro onto the center of the rice paper.
4. Fold the bottom half of the rice paper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly to form a summer roll.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Fry the summer rolls in hot oil for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
7. Serve immediately with a drizzle of soy sauce and honey.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Summary
Explore a world of flavors with these 18 creative recipes that feature century eggs as the star ingredient. From savory stir-fries to sweet summer rolls, these dishes will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more. Discover unique combinations like century egg and tofu salad, spicy stir-fry with kimchi fried rice, and even sushi rolls with pickled ginger. Whether you’re an adventurous foodie or just looking for a new culinary challenge, this collection of recipes is sure to inspire your next cooking adventure.
