When it comes to breakfast or a quick snack, few dishes can rival the simplicity and comfort of a well-made plate of steamed eggs. In Chinese cuisine, steamed eggs are a staple dish that has been enjoyed for centuries, with various regional and cultural twists added along the way. From savory to sweet, and from classic to creative, there’s an endless array of flavor combinations to try.
In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 delicious recipes for silky Chinese steamed eggs that will take your culinary skills to new heights. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these mouthwatering dishes are sure to become instant favorites.
Classic Chinese Steamed Eggs with Soy Sauce
This simple yet flavorful recipe is a staple in many Chinese households. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can enjoy a delicious and protein-rich breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon water
– Salt to taste
– Scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a small bowl and whisk them together with a fork.
2. Add the soy sauce, water, and salt. Whisk until well combined.
3. Pour the egg mixture into a heatproof cup or ramekin that can fit in your steamer basket.
4. Steam the eggs over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until they are cooked through to your desired doneness.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Silky Steamed Eggs with Minced Pork
A simple yet elegant breakfast or brunch dish that combines the richness of steamed eggs with the savory flavor of minced pork.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup diced cooked pork (such as ham or bacon)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to a simmer and place a steamer basket over the pot.
3. Crack the eggs into a small bowl or ramekin.
4. Add the minced pork to the eggs and gently fold until well combined.
5. Place the egg mixture in the steamer basket.
6. Steam for 12-15 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
7. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
8. Serve with butter and a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chinese Steamed Egg Custard with Shrimp
A classic Chinese dessert, steamed egg custard is a simple yet impressive treat that pairs perfectly with succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 12-15 cooked and peeled shrimp
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, and salt until well combined.
2. Add vanilla extract and whisk until smooth.
3. In a separate pan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add shrimp and stir-fry until pink and cooked through. Set aside.
4. Pour egg mixture into 6 small cups or ramekins.
5. Place one or two cooked shrimp on top of each custard.
6. Steam the custards over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until the edges are set and centers still slightly jiggly.
7. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of sugar if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Savory Steamed Eggs with Mushrooms
This recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to prepare eggs and mushrooms together. The steaming process helps retain the delicate flavors of both ingredients, making it perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a heatproof bowl or steamer basket.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms on top of the eggs.
3. Dot the mushrooms with butter.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Steam the mixture over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Eggs with Scallions and Ginger
This recipe combines the simplicity of steaming eggs with the savory flavors of scallions and ginger, creating a delightful breakfast dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a steamer basket lined with cheesecloth or a clean cotton cloth.
2. Place the sliced ginger on top of the eggs.
3. Add the chopped scallions around the eggs, leaving a small border at the edges.
4. Steam the mixture over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with additional scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chinese Steamed Egg with Tofu and Peas
A classic Chinese comfort food, this simple yet satisfying dish is a staple in many Chinese households. This recipe combines the creaminess of eggs with the tenderness of tofu and sweetness of peas, all steamed to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup frozen peas
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Add the tofu, peas, soy sauce, and sesame oil to the egg mixture. Whisk gently to distribute evenly.
3. Pour the mixture into a heatproof dish or steamer basket lined with parchment paper.
4. Steam over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until the eggs are set and the tofu is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Egg with Crab Meat and Corn
A simple yet flavorful breakfast or brunch option that combines the creaminess of eggs, the sweetness of corn, and the savory flavor of crab meat.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup jumbo lump crab meat
– 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a steamer basket set over boiling water.
2. Add the crab meat, corn kernels, salt, and pepper on top of the eggs.
3. Dot the top with butter.
4. Cover the pot and steam for 12-15 minutes or until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to desired doneness.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Silky Egg Custard with Dried Scallops
Elevate your dessert game with this creamy and indulgent Silky Egg Custard, infused with the savory goodness of dried scallops.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups heavy cream
– 1 cup whole milk
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup dried scallops, rehydrated and chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, whole milk, egg yolks, sugar, and salt until well combined.
3. Add vanilla extract and melted butter; whisk until smooth.
4. Stir in rehydrated dried scallops.
5. Pour mixture into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Place ramekins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are slightly jiggly.
8. Remove from oven; let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Chinese Steamed Eggs with Century Egg
This classic Chinese dish combines the creaminess of steamed eggs with the savory, umami flavor of century egg. A simple yet elegant breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 century egg, sliced into thin pieces
– Salt and white pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add the water and whisk until smooth.
2. Pour the egg mixture into a heatproof cup or small ceramic steamer.
3. Place the sliced century egg on top of the eggs.
4. Steam the mixture over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until the eggs are cooked through and fluffy.
5. Season with salt and white pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Egg with Spinach and Garlic
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the creaminess of eggs, the nutrients of spinach, and the pungency of garlic to create a delicious and healthy breakfast or snack option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon water
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a small saucepan or steamer basket.
2. Add the spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper on top of the eggs.
3. Add the water to the saucepan or steamer basket.
4. Steam the mixture over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
5. Remove from heat and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chinese Tea Egg Steamed Custard
This recipe combines the traditional Chinese tea egg with a creamy steamed custard, adding a delightful twist to this classic dessert. The result is a smooth and silky texture that complements the savory flavors of the tea egg.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup water
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 3 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 Chinese tea egg, steamed and cracked open (see note)
– Fresh tea leaves or jasmine green tea leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine water, milk, sugar, and salt. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Remove from heat and whisk in egg yolks and vanilla extract.
3. Pour mixture into small cups or ramekins.
4. Place cups in a steamer basket with boiling water at least 1 inch deep.
5. Steam for 12-15 minutes or until custard is set and slightly puffed.
6. Garnish with fresh tea leaves or jasmine green tea leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Steamed Eggs with Fish Sauce and Herbs
This simple yet flavorful recipe combines the richness of fish sauce with the freshness of herbs, all wrapped up in a silky steamed egg.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (nam pla)
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon chopped scallions
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer.
2. Crack the eggs into a heatproof bowl or ramekin.
3. Add the fish sauce, cilantro, and scallions to the eggs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Place the bowl over the simmering water, ensuring the bottom of the bowl is not touching the water.
5. Steam the eggs for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Silky Egg with Clams and Glass Noodles
A delicate and savory fusion of textures and flavors, this recipe combines the creaminess of silky eggs, the brininess of clams, and the crunch of glass noodles.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup freshly shucked clams, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup glass noodles
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the glass noodles according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Crack in the eggs and cook until the whites are set and the yolks are still slightly runny.
3. Add the clams to the skillet and stir gently to combine with the eggs.
4. Add the cooked glass noodles to the skillet and toss to combine with the egg and clam mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chinese Steamed Egg with Pork Belly
A classic Chinese comfort food, this dish is a staple in many households. With the rich flavor of pork belly and the creamy texture of steamed egg, it’s a meal that warms the heart.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 pound pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Place the pork belly slices in a heatproof dish and steam for 5 minutes.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the pork belly and add soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sesame oil.
4. Steam for an additional 8-10 minutes or until the eggs are cooked to your desired doneness.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 13-15 minutes
Steamed Egg with Oysters and Black Bean Sauce
Elevate your brunch game with this rich and savory dish, featuring creamy steamed eggs, succulent oysters, and a bold black bean sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 12 oysters, shucked and patted dry
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat steamer basket over boiling water.
2. Crack eggs into a heatproof bowl or ramekin. Steam for 10-12 minutes, or until whites are set and yolks are still slightly runny.
3. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a small skillet over medium-high. Add oysters and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. In a separate pan, combine black beans, soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium-low, stirring occasionally, until sauce thickens to desired consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
5. To assemble, place steamed eggs on a plate, top with oysters, and spoon black bean sauce alongside.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Silky Egg Custard with Bamboo Shoots
A delicate and creamy egg custard infused with the subtle sweetness of bamboo shoots, perfect for a light and refreshing dessert.
Ingredients:
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1/4 cup bamboo shoots, sliced into thin strips
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, whisk together egg yolks, sugar, and salt.
3. Add milk and melted butter; cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens slightly, about 10 minutes.
4. Remove from heat; stir in sliced bamboo shoots.
5. Strain custard into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until edges are set and centers are still slightly jiggly.
7. Allow to cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chinese Steamed Egg with Chicken and Shiitake
This classic Chinese dish is a comforting and flavorful side that pairs well with many main courses. With tender chicken, savory mushrooms, and silky steamed eggs, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups mixed Shiitake mushrooms, sliced
– 4 large eggs
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together eggs, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Bring a pot of water to a boil. Reduce heat and place a steamer basket over the pot.
3. Add chicken and mushrooms to the steamer basket. Steam for 5-7 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Pour egg mixture over the chicken and mushrooms. Cover with a lid and steam for an additional 10-12 minutes, or until eggs are set.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and a sprinkle of soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Steamed Egg with Seaweed and Sesame Oil
A simple yet nutritious Japanese-inspired breakfast dish that combines the richness of egg with the umami flavor of seaweed.
Ingredients:
– 1 large egg
– 1 sheet of wakame seaweed (dried or fresh)
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the egg into a heatproof bowl.
2. Add the wakame seaweed and season with salt to taste.
3. Steam the egg mixture over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until the whites are set and the yolks are cooked to your desired doneness.
4. Remove from heat and drizzle with sesame oil.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tips:
– Use fresh wakame seaweed for a more pronounced flavor.
– Adjust the amount of seaweed according to your taste preference.
– Sesame oil adds a nutty flavor, but you can substitute it with another oil if desired.
Silky Egg with Pickled Vegetables
Elevate your breakfast game with this creamy and tangy recipe, featuring silky scrambled eggs and a medley of pickled vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup pickled carrots (see note)
– 1/2 cup pickled green beans (see note)
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add the butter, heavy cream or half-and-half, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and pour in the egg mixture.
3. Let the eggs cook for about 30 seconds, until the edges start to set.
4. Use a spatula to gently scramble the eggs, breaking them up into small curds.
5. Once the eggs are cooked to your liking, divide them onto two plates.
6. Top each plate with pickled carrots and green beans.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Note: To make pickled carrots and green beans, combine 1 cup of carrot sticks and 1 cup of green beans in a bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Pour the dressing over the vegetables and let them sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Chinese Steamed Egg with Lobster and Ginger
A classic Chinese recipe that’s both comforting and elegant, this steamed egg dish is infused with the rich flavor of lobster and a hint of spicy ginger. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy dinner at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup lobster meat (fresh or canned)
– 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork until well mixed.
2. In a separate pan, heat the sesame oil over medium heat. Add the grated ginger and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the lobster meat to the pan and stir-fry for about 1 minute until heated through.
4. Pour the egg mixture over the lobster mixture in the pan.
5. Steam the eggs over boiling water for 12-15 minutes, or until they’re cooked through and slightly firm to the touch.
6. Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Discover the art of silky Chinese steamed eggs with our collection of 20 delicious recipes. From classic combinations like soy sauce and minced pork, to seafood-infused delights like shrimp and crab meat, there’s something for every taste bud. Try adding century egg, fish sauce, or pickled vegetables for an extra boost of flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen newbie, these easy-to-follow recipes will guide you in creating a dish that’s sure to impress. Get started and steam your way to culinary success!
