Silky Chinese Steamed Eggs — Custard-Soft Perfection

Silky Chinese Steamed Eggs — Custard-Soft Perfection 🥢

Few dishes capture the essence of Chinese home cooking quite like steamed eggs. This silky, custard-soft delicacy is the perfect balance of simplicity and comfort — just eggs, water, and a few seasonings, transformed into a luxurious, savory custard. 🌿

Smooth as silk and gently seasoned with soy sauce and sesame oil, these Chinese steamed eggs are a go-to breakfast or light side dish that warms both body and soul. 💛

The Secret to That Silky Texture

The magic lies in the low and slow steaming. Too much heat, and your custard turns grainy. Keep the steam gentle, cover the bowl, and you’ll be rewarded with a glossy surface and quivering texture. For restaurant-level smoothness, strain the egg mixture before steaming — this removes bubbles and uneven bits.

Ingredients You’ll Need 🍳

Just a few staples are all it takes:

• Eggs and water form the silky base.
• Chicken powder, salt, and sugar balance umami and sweetness.
• Soy sauce and sesame oil add that finishing aroma.
• Green onions bring freshness and color.

It’s quick to prepare (only 20 minutes total!) and endlessly adaptable — try using chicken broth instead of water for deeper flavor.

Step-by-Step: How to Get It Perfect 👩🏻‍🍳

1. Whisk & Strain: Combine eggs, water, chicken powder, salt, and sugar. Whisk gently — avoid bubbles! Strain into a heatproof bowl.
2. Steam Gently: Cover the bowl with foil or a plate to prevent water droplets from marring the surface. Steam on low heat for about 10–12 minutes, until the center barely jiggles.
3. Finish & Serve: Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil on top, then garnish with chopped green onions. Serve warm with rice or toast.

Each spoonful glides like velvet — mild, comforting, and incredibly satisfying.

Pro Tips 💡

✨ Strain the mixture through a fine sieve for an ultra-smooth custard.
✨ Cover the bowl during steaming to keep the surface pristine.
✨ Don’t oversteam — the center should still have a slight wobble!

A Comfort Dish for Any Time

This dish isn’t just for breakfast. It pairs beautifully with steamed rice, stir-fried greens, or even a side of braised tofu. In many Cantonese households, it’s the ultimate comfort food — light, nourishing, and soothing.

FAQs ❓

Why are my steamed eggs not smooth?
👉 The steam might be too strong or the heat too high. Always keep it gentle and consistent for the best texture.

Can I use chicken broth instead of water?
👉 Absolutely! It adds a deeper savory flavor that complements the silky eggs perfectly.

Recipe adapted from Derek Chen, rewritten by JojoM. 🍶