Creative Recipes Using Century Egg (Preserved Egg)

Century eggs, also known as preserved eggs or hundred-year-old eggs, are a unique delicacy in Chinese cuisine. These eggs are preserved in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice hulls for several weeks to several months, resulting in a distinct flavor and creamy texture. While century eggs can be an acquired taste for some, they can add a rich and savory element to a variety of dishes. In this blog post, we will explore some creative recipes using century eggs that will help you appreciate this traditional ingredient in new and exciting ways. (Century egg)

What is a Century Egg?

Before we dive into the recipes, let's briefly talk about what century eggs are and how they are made. Century eggs are duck, chicken, or quail eggs that have been preserved through a process of fermentation and aging. The eggs are coated with a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice hulls, which causes the egg white to become jelly-like and the yolk to turn a dark green or black color. Despite their strong aroma and appearance, century eggs have a unique umami flavor that pairs well with a variety of ingredients.

Safety Precautions When Handling Century Eggs

When working with century eggs, it is essential to practice food safety to prevent any potential risks of contamination. Here are some safety precautions to keep in mind:

1. Always check the expiration date on the packaging before using century eggs.
2. Store century eggs in the refrigerator to maintain their freshness and prevent spoilage.
3. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling century eggs to avoid cross-contamination.
4. Use a clean knife and cutting board when slicing century eggs to prevent the spread of bacteria.
5. If you notice any mold or unusual odor on the century egg, discard it immediately to avoid foodborne illness.

Now that we have covered the basics, let's explore some delicious recipes that feature century eggs as a star ingredient.

Century Egg Congee

Century egg congee is a classic Chinese comfort food that is perfect for a hearty breakfast or a comforting meal. The creamy texture of the century eggs adds a rich and savory flavor to the congee.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of jasmine rice
• 6 cups of chicken broth
• 2 century eggs, peeled and chopped
• Sliced green onions and fried shallots for garnish
• Soy sauce and white pepper for seasoning

Instructions:

1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a large pot, bring the chicken broth to a boil.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the rice until it is soft and creamy, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the chopped century eggs and continue to simmer for a few more minutes.
5. Season the congee with soy sauce and white pepper to taste.
6. Serve the congee hot, garnished with sliced green onions and fried shallots.

Century Egg Salad

Century egg salad is a refreshing and flavorful dish that combines the creaminess of century eggs with crunchy vegetables and a zesty dressing. This salad is perfect for a light lunch or as a side dish for a summer barbecue.

Ingredients:

• 2 century eggs, peeled and diced
• 1 cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1 carrot, julienned
• 1/2 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• Chopped cilantro and mint leaves for garnish

Dressing:

• 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 1 clove of garlic, minced
• Red chili flakes (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the diced century eggs, sliced cucumber, julienned carrot, and red bell pepper.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, minced garlic, and red chili flakes.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to combine.
4. Chill the salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Garnish the salad with chopped cilantro and mint leaves before serving.

Century Egg Porridge

Century egg porridge, also known as "jook" in Cantonese cuisine, is a comforting and nourishing dish that is often served as a breakfast staple or as a soothing meal for the sick. The creamy texture of century eggs adds a unique flavor to this simple and satisfying porridge.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup of jasmine rice
• 6 cups of water or chicken broth
• 2 century eggs, peeled and mashed
• Sliced ginger and green onions for garnish
• Salt and white pepper for seasoning

Instructions:

1. Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a large pot, bring the water or chicken broth to a boil.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the rice until it is soft and creamy, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the mashed century eggs and continue to simmer for a few more minutes.
5. Season the porridge with salt and white pepper to taste.
6. Serve the porridge hot, garnished with sliced ginger and green onions.

Century Egg Tofu

Century egg tofu is a simple yet elegant dish that showcases the creamy texture of century eggs alongside silky tofu. This dish is light, refreshing, and perfect for a hot summer day.

Ingredients:

• 1 block of silken tofu, cut into cubes
• 2 century eggs, peeled and sliced
• Soy sauce and sesame oil for drizzling
• Sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Arrange the tofu cubes on a serving platter.
2. Top the tofu with sliced century eggs.
3. Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil over the tofu and century eggs.
4. Garnish with sliced scallions and toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Conclusion

Century eggs are a versatile ingredient that can add a unique flavor and texture to a variety of dishes. Whether you enjoy them in congee, salad, porridge, or tofu, century eggs are sure to elevate your culinary experience with their rich umami taste. Remember to handle century eggs with care and follow food safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable cooking process. Get creative in the kitchen and experiment with different recipes to discover the delicious possibilities of century eggs! (Century egg)