Stir-fried tomatoes and eggs (番茄炒蛋, fānqié chǎo dàn) is a quintessential Chinese dish, beloved for its simplicity, vibrant color, and irresistible flavor. This seemingly basic combination of pantry staples transforms into a culinary masterpiece with just a few simple techniques. The sweet burst of ripe tomatoes perfectly complements the savory richness of the eggs, creating a harmonious balance that's both satisfying and surprisingly complex. It's a dish that's perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting weekend brunch, and its versatility allows for endless variations depending on your preferred level of spice or added ingredients.
This classic recipe is surprisingly adaptable; feel free to experiment with different types of tomatoes or add a pinch of chili flakes for extra heat. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this dish is guaranteed to impress. Ready to learn how to make this iconic Chinese dish? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create your own delicious plate of stir-fried tomatoes and eggs.
Tools Needed
- Wok
- Bowl
- Pan
- Spatula
Ingredients
- Tomatoes
- Eggs
- Scallions
- Salt
- Ketchup
- Sugar
- Water
- Cornstarch
- Extra light olive oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Cut tomatoes into wedges or small pieces.
- Thinly slice scallions.
- Crack eggs into a bowl, whisk with salt.
Step 2. Stir-fried Tomatoes & Eggs
- Heat wok, add oil, white part of scallions, tomatoes, ketchup, sugar, water. Cook until softened (2 mins). Add cornstarch slurry to thicken.
- Add egg to hot wok, scramble until half-cooked. Return tomatoes, stir-fry together. Add green part of scallions.
Step 3. Rolled Omelet with Tomatoes & Eggs
- Whisk eggs with diced tomatoes, sliced scallions, salt, and sugar.
- Heat pan with oil. Add egg mixture, cook until halfway done. Roll up, slice, and repeat until all mixture is cooked. Let rest before slicing.
Step 4. Baked Tomato & Egg
- Cut off the top of a tomato, remove the center. Crack an egg inside, season with salt and pepper. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
Read more: Authentic Chinese Mapo Tofu Recipe: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- For stir-fried method, you can adjust the amount of ketchup, sugar, and water to your liking for sweetness and sourness.
- In the rolled omelet method, you can use other cooking oil instead of extra light olive oil.
- Experiment with different ways to cook tomatoes and eggs – with noodles, rice, pancakes, omelets, or even soup!
Nutrition
- Calories: 200-300
- Fat: 10-20g
- Carbs: 15-25g
- Protein: 8-12g
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh tomatoes?
Yes! Canned diced tomatoes work well, just be sure to drain them before adding them to the pan to avoid excess liquid.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a few slices of fresh chili pepper to the pan along with the tomatoes. You can also use a spicy chili oil for extra heat.
Mastering this simple yet flavorful dish opens a world of culinary possibilities. With just a few readily available ingredients and a little practice, you can consistently create a delicious and authentic Chinese stir-fry. So, grab your wok (or frying pan!), and enjoy the satisfying taste of homemade stir-fried tomatoes and eggs!