Century Egg, known as preserved egg or hundred-year egg, is a traditional Chinese delicacy that has captivated food enthusiasts around the world. This unique dish features duck, chicken, or quail eggs that have been preserved through a meticulous process involving clay, ash, and quicklime, resulting in a striking appearance with a dark green yolk and translucent black-white egg. Its distinctive flavor, a blend of creamy, salty, and earthy notes, makes it a popular addition to various dishes, from congee to salads. The cultural significance and historical roots of Century Egg further enhance its allure, making it a beloved ingredient in Chinese cuisine. As culinary curiosity continues to grow, the Century Egg remains a fascinating topic for food lovers and adventurous eaters alike.
Century Egg: A Culinary Delight
Century Egg, also known as hundred-year egg, is a traditional Chinese delicacy that has captivated taste buds for centuries. Despite its name, it is not actually a century old; rather, it refers to the unique preservation process that gives the egg its distinctive color and flavor. The egg is typically made from duck, chicken, or quail eggs that are preserved in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, and quicklime, resulting in a dark green or black exterior and a creamy yolk. This delicacy is often enjoyed with congee, pickled ginger, or as part of an elaborate Chinese banquet.
Preparation of Century Egg
History
The origins of the Century Egg date back to the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), although the exact timeline remains unclear. Legend has it that a farmer discovered the preservation method after accidentally leaving eggs in a mixture of clay and ash for some time. Over the centuries, Century Eggs have become a popular delicacy in various Asian cultures, not only in China but also in countries like Vietnam and Korea. The unique texture and flavor of Century Eggs have made them a staple in traditional Chinese cuisine, often served at banquets and celebrations.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Duck, chicken, or quail eggs | 6-10 eggs |
| Quicklime | 1 cup |
| Wood ash | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1 cup |
| Water | Enough to make a thick paste |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Preservation Mixture: In a bowl, mix together quicklime, wood ash, and salt. Gradually add water until the mixture reaches a thick paste consistency.
- Coat the Eggs: Gently coat each egg with the preservation mixture, ensuring they are fully covered.
- Wrap the Eggs: Wrap each coated egg in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container. This will help preserve the eggs and prevent the mixture from hardening too quickly.
- Store the Eggs: Place the wrapped eggs in a cool, dark place for about 4-6 weeks. The longer you leave them, the stronger the flavor will be.
- Rinse the Eggs: After the preservation period is complete, remove the eggs from the mixture and rinse them thoroughly under cold running water to remove any residue.
- Peel and Serve: Once rinsed, gently tap the egg against a hard surface to crack the shell and peel it away. The egg is now ready to be sliced and served!
Serving Suggestions
Century Eggs can be enjoyed in various ways:
- With Congee: Slice and add Century Eggs to warm rice porridge.
- In Salads: Incorporate sliced Century Eggs into fresh salads for unique flavor.
- With Pickled Ginger: Serve alongside pickled ginger for a refreshing contrast.
- As an Appetizer: Serve slices on a platter garnished with soy sauce and scallions.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Century Egg?
A Century Egg is a preserved egg, typically made from duck, chicken, or quail eggs, that has been treated with a combination of clay, ash, and quicklime. It has a unique flavor and appearance, with a dark green to black yolk and translucent jelly-like white.
How is a Century Egg made?
The process involves preserving eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, and lime for several weeks to months. This fermentation alters the egg’s flavor, texture, and color.
Are Century Eggs safe to eat?
Yes, Century Eggs are safe to eat when prepared properly. They are commonly consumed in various dishes and cuisines around the world.
What do Century Eggs taste like?
Century Eggs have a rich, umami flavor with a creamy texture. They can taste salty with a hint of sweetness depending on the preservation method used.
How do you eat Century Eggs?
They can be eaten on their own, sliced in salads, or used as a topping for congee. Century Eggs are often paired with soy sauce or vinegar for added flavor.
Are Century Eggs vegetarian?
No, Century Eggs are not vegetarian as they are made from animal eggs, typically duck or chicken eggs.
Can you find Century Eggs in Western countries?
Yes, Century Eggs are becoming more popular and can be found in Asian grocery stores or specialty food stores in Western countries.
How long do Century Eggs last?
When stored in a cool, dry place, unopened Century Eggs can last for several months. Once opened, they should be eaten within a week for the best taste.
What are the health benefits of Century Eggs?
Century Eggs are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, they can also be high in sodium, so moderation is advised.
Can you make Century Eggs at home?
Yes, you can make Century Eggs at home using the traditional method, but it requires careful handling and patience due to the long preservation process.
Are there different types of Century Eggs?
Yes, there are several types, including duck Century Eggs, quail Century Eggs, and chicken Century Eggs, each with slight variations in flavor and texture.
Do Century Eggs have a strong smell?
Century Eggs may have a distinct aroma that some find strong or pungent, especially when compared to fresh eggs. The smell is a result of the aging process and the chemical changes in the egg.
Can Century Eggs be cooked?
While Century Eggs are typically eaten raw or sliced, they can also be cooked in dishes like soups and stir-fries, which enhance their flavor.
