Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further than Chả Trứng Hấp, a delightful Vietnamese steamed egg cake that’s surprisingly easy to make. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal that's ready in under 30 minutes. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or just starting your culinary journey, this Chả Trứng Hấp recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. It's a perfect example of how simple, healthy meals can be both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup fish sauce (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions
- 1 teaspoon finely chopped cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (optional, adjust to taste; fish sauce is salty)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for greasing the dish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Prepare your steamer. Fill the bottom of your steamer with enough water to reach about halfway up the sides of the steamer basket. Bring the water to a rolling boil.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, fish sauce, sugar, green onions, cilantro, black pepper, and salt (if using) until well combined. Make sure there are no visible egg whites remaining. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.
Steam the Egg Cake:
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Lightly grease a heatproof dish (approximately 6-8 inches in diameter) with vegetable oil. This prevents sticking.
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Carefully pour the egg mixture into the prepared dish.
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Place the dish in the steamer basket and cover. Steam over medium-high heat for about 20-25 minutes, or until the egg cake is set and no longer jiggly in the center. Cooking time may vary depending on the size of your dish and the power of your stove.
Serve and Enjoy:
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Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the steamer. Let it cool slightly before serving.
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Cut into wedges and serve immediately. This dish is fantastic on its own or served alongside rice, noodles, or your favorite dipping sauce.
Tips for the Best Chả Trứng Hấp:
- Don't overmix the batter: Overmixing can result in a tough egg cake. Gentle whisking is key.
- Adjust seasonings to your preference: The amount of fish sauce, sugar, and pepper can be adjusted to suit your taste. Start with the suggested amounts and adjust as needed.
- Check for doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it's ready.
- Serve immediately for best results: Chả Trứng Hấp is best enjoyed fresh.
Variations:
- Add protein: Incorporate finely chopped cooked shrimp, pork, or mushrooms for added protein and flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Herbs and aromatics: Experiment with different herbs and aromatics like shallots, chives, or Thai basil.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: ~8-10g
- Fat: ~10-12g
- Carbohydrates: ~2-3g
This simple Chả Trứng Hấp recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals. It's quick, adaptable, and incredibly satisfying – a perfect quick dinner idea that the whole family will love. Enjoy!