Egg Foo Young is a delightful and versatile dish that has its roots in Cantonese cuisine but has become a beloved part of Westernized Chinese food menus across the globe. This recipe offers a delightful blend of protein-packed eggs, fresh vegetables, and succulent meats or seafood, making it a complete meal in itself. Not only is it incredibly satisfying, but it's also quick and easy to whip up at home. Here's how you can master this dish in just five simple steps.
Gathering Ingredients
First, let's gather the essentials:
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup diced carrots
- 1/4 cup sliced water chestnuts
- 1/4 cup chopped ham or shrimp (optional for a vegetarian version)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
- Gravy (optional): made from soy sauce, cornstarch, chicken broth, and sugar
đź“ť Note: Adjust the quantities based on how many servings you're preparing. Traditional recipes might call for specific ingredients like bamboo shoots, but feel free to customize it with what you have on hand or what you prefer!
Preparing the Mixture
To get started:
Beat the eggs in a large bowl until well combined.
Add green onions, bean sprouts, carrots, water chestnuts, and either ham or shrimp if you're using it.
Stir in the soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Let the mixture rest for a few minutes to let the flavors meld together.
🍲 Note: You might find variations with ingredients like mushrooms or peas. Feel free to experiment with the flavors you love.
Cooking the Patties
Time to fry:
Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
Scoop about 1/2 cup of the egg mixture into the hot skillet, spreading it out to form a small pancake.
Cook until the edges start to set, then flip it over. Cook the other side until golden brown and the egg is fully cooked.
Repeat for the remaining mixture, adding more oil if necessary to prevent sticking.
| Cooking Time | Heat Level |
|---|---|
| 2-3 minutes per side | Medium-high |
Making the Gravy
Here's an optional step to enrich your Egg Foo Young:
- Gravy:
- Combine 1 cup chicken broth, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 2 teaspoons cornstarch, and a dash of sugar.
- Heat this mixture in a small saucepan over medium heat until it thickens.
- Pour over the cooked patties before serving or serve on the side.
Serving
To serve:
Place the cooked Egg Foo Young patties on a plate.
Pour or drizzle the gravy over them, if using.
Garnish with additional green onions or a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
Serve hot alongside steamed rice or by itself.
Your Egg Foo Young is now ready to be savored! This dish not only provides a burst of flavors but also combines the comforting richness of eggs with the crispness of vegetables. It's a quick and nutritious meal that can easily be adapted to suit any taste or dietary requirement. Whether you're cooking for one or for a crowd, Egg Foo Young is a simple yet elegant option that promises satisfaction with every bite.
Creating Egg Foo Young at home is an art of balance—between the eggs, the vegetables, and the meats or seafood you choose. With these steps, you've mastered this art, making a delicious, homemade version of this classic dish. Enjoy the culinary journey, experiment with ingredients, and make this dish your own with each iteration.
Can Egg Foo Young be made without meat?
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Absolutely! Omit the ham or shrimp for a vegetarian version, and you can even add ingredients like tofu for protein.
How do I store leftovers?
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Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
Is there a low-carb version of Egg Foo Young?
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Yes, reduce or omit the carrots and increase the amount of eggs and other low-carb vegetables like zucchini.
Can I freeze Egg Foo Young?
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Egg Foo Young doesn’t freeze well due to the eggs, but you can freeze the gravy separately if you wish.
