Century eggs, with their unique appearance and pungent aroma, are a culinary marvel of Chinese cuisine. Often misunderstood by newcomers, these preserved eggs possess a surprisingly creamy, almost custard-like texture, and a complex flavor profile that ranges from salty and savory to subtly ammonia-like. This intriguing ingredient forms the base of our incredibly flavorful Century Egg Salad, a recipe that cleverly balances the egg's distinctive taste with bright, fresh ingredients. Forget preconceived notions – this salad is a delicious adventure waiting to happen.
This recipe offers a modern twist on a classic, showcasing the century egg's potential beyond its traditional applications. We’ll guide you through a simple yet elegant preparation, transforming the potentially intimidating century egg into a star ingredient in a vibrant and refreshing salad perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even a sophisticated appetizer. Ready to unlock the secrets of this unique and delicious salad? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Spoon
- Knife
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- Century Eggs
- Cilantro
- Garlic
- Cayenne Peppers
- Jalapeno Peppers
- Cooking Oil: 2 tbsp
- Light Soy Sauce: 2 tbsp
- Vinegar: 1 tbsp
- Sugar: 1 tsp
- Salt: 1/4 tsp
- Sesame Oil: 1 tsp
- Chili Oil: 1 tbsp
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Century Eggs and Chili Sauce Base
- Crack and peel the century eggs. Tap the eggshell with a spoon to crack it evenly and peel from the bottom.
- Slice the eggs in half, then in half again. Note the dark brown egg white and creamy dark green yolk.
- Finely chop garlic, cayenne peppers, and jalapeno peppers. Add them to a mixing bowl.
- Finely chop cilantro and set aside.
- Heat 2 tbsp of cooking oil until almost smoking. Pour the oil over the chopped chilies and garlic in the bowl. Mix well.
- Add light soy sauce (2 tbsp), vinegar (1 tbsp), sugar (1 tsp), salt (1/4 tsp), sesame oil (1 tsp), and chili oil (1 tbsp) to the bowl. Mix well.
Step 2. Combine and Season
- Add the chopped cilantro and mix everything together.
Step 3. Assemble the Century Egg Salad
- Arrange the egg pieces on a plate in a circle. Gently add a little sauce to each slice of egg, then pour the remaining sauce in the middle of the plate.
Read more: Chinese Shredded Chicken Salad Recipe: Easy Sesame Chicken
Tips
- The black dots on the eggshell are normal.
- Century eggs have a strong smell, but the sauce masks this.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Where can I buy century eggs?
Century eggs are readily available at Asian grocery stores, some larger supermarkets with international food sections, and online retailers. Look for them in the refrigerated section.
2. What if my century egg smells very strong?
A strong smell is normal for century eggs. If the smell is overwhelmingly pungent or off-putting, it might be spoiled. Check for any signs of mold or unusual discoloration before using.
This Century Egg Salad recipe is a testament to the surprising versatility of century eggs, proving that even the most unusual ingredients can be transformed into a delicious and satisfying dish. We hope you enjoyed exploring this unique culinary adventure and encourage you to experiment with different additions and variations to create your own perfect version. Now go forth and enjoy this spicy, flavorful, and unforgettable salad!