Dive into the delightful world of Mapo Boiled Eggs, a captivating Chinese side dish that elevates the humble boiled egg to new heights of flavor. This recipe isn't your average hard-boiled egg; it's a symphony of savory, spicy, and subtly sweet notes, achieved through a rich and flavorful sauce inspired by the iconic Mapo Tofu. The silken texture of the eggs contrasts beautifully with the vibrant, slightly oily sauce, creating a textural and gustatory experience you won't soon forget. Imagine the tender, perfectly cooked egg white yielding to a molten yolk, all coated in a luscious, mouthwatering sauce.
This simple yet intensely flavorful dish is surprisingly easy to make, requiring readily available ingredients and minimal cooking time. The result? A truly unforgettable side that’s perfect for accompanying rice, noodles, or even as a standalone snack. Ready to transform ordinary boiled eggs into an extraordinary culinary adventure? Let's get started with our step-by-step guide!
Tools Needed
- Pot
- Pan
Ingredients
- Eggs
- Salt
- Cooking oil
- Ginger
- Red pepper powder
- Beef
- Green onions
- Onions
- Soy sauce
- Mirin
- Corn syrup
- Doenjang (fermented soybean paste)
- Chicken stock
- Oyster sauce
- Garlic
- Chili pepper (various types)
- Specialty water (adjust consistency)
- Sesame seeds
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Eggs
- Add salt to boiling water and boil eggs for exactly 7 minutes. Then, take them out and immediately place in ice water to peel.
Step 2. Sauté Aromatics and Seasonings
- In a pan, add cooking oil, chopped ginger, red pepper powder, chopped beef, green onions, and chopped onions. Stir-fry.
- Add soy sauce, mirin, corn syrup, doenjang, chicken stock, oyster sauce, chopped garlic, and various chili peppers. Add specialty water to adjust consistency.
Step 3. Simmer Eggs in Sauce
- Add the peeled eggs to the pan and simmer for exactly 1 minute more.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Sprinkle sesame seeds.
Read more: Bibimbap Recipe: Delicious Korean Mixed Rice & Vegetables
Tips
- It's crucial to add ginger for an authentic Chinese flavor.
- Don't overcook the eggs; otherwise, the yolk will turn black.
- The dish tastes better if you serve it over rice and mix well.
- The flavors meld even better if you let it sit overnight.
Nutrition
- Calories: Approximately 250-350
- Fat: 18-25g
- Carbs: 10-15g
- Protein: 15-20g
FAQs
1. Can I use pre-cooked eggs?
Yes, but for the best results, boil your eggs until the yolks are still slightly runny. This ensures they absorb the Mapo sauce better.
2. What type of chili bean sauce should I use?
Doubanjiang (fermented broad bean chili sauce) is traditional. Look for it in Asian grocery stores. You can adjust the amount based on your spice preference.
3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It's best served fresh, as the eggs can become dry if they sit for too long. However, you can prepare the sauce ahead and add the eggs just before serving.
This Mapo Boiled Eggs recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients can create an explosion of flavor. With its perfect balance of spice, savoriness, and a touch of sweetness, it's a dish guaranteed to impress. So, give it a try and elevate your next meal with this delicious and easy-to-make side dish!