Steamed Minced Pork with Salted Egg Recipe
Introduction: Steamed minced pork with salted egg is a classic Chinese home-cooked dish that’s both hearty and flavorful. The combination of tender minced pork and the unique, savory taste of salted egg creates a comforting dish that’s perfect with a bowl of steamed rice. This dish is easy to prepare, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients:
- 250g minced pork
- 1 salted egg (duck egg), lightly beaten
- 1/2 salted egg yolk, chopped into small pieces
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp Shaoxing wine (optional)
- 1/2 tsp white pepper
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1/2 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp cornstarch
- 1/4 cup water or chicken broth
- 1 stalk green onion, finely chopped (for garnish)
- 1 small piece of ginger, finely minced (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Mixture:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the minced pork with soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, white pepper, sesame oil, sugar, and cornstarch. Mix thoroughly until the pork is well seasoned. Adding a little cornstarch helps to tenderize the pork and bind the mixture together.
- Add the Salted Egg:
- Crack the salted egg into a small bowl and beat it lightly. Pour it into the pork mixture, mixing well to ensure even distribution. Salted egg has a strong flavor, so a small amount goes a long way. Add the chopped salted egg yolk into the mixture for an extra burst of flavor. The yolk adds richness, while the egg white adds a briny, umami taste.
- Prepare for Steaming:
- Transfer the pork mixture into a shallow, heatproof dish, spreading it out evenly. Use the back of a spoon to smooth the top. Pour in the water or chicken broth over the mixture. The liquid helps the pork stay moist and tender during steaming.
- Steam the Pork:
- Set up your steamer. If you don’t have a steamer, you can use a large pot with a steaming rack or a makeshift setup using a plate elevated over water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce to medium heat. Carefully place the dish into the steamer. Cover and steam for about 20-25 minutes, or until the pork is fully cooked and the juices run clear.
- Garnish and Serve:
- Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the steamer. The surface should be firm, and the edges may pull slightly away from the dish. Sprinkle the chopped green onions and minced ginger on top for added freshness and aroma. Serve the steamed minced pork with salted egg hot, with a side of steamed rice.
Tips:
- For a smoother texture, you can add a bit more water or broth to the pork mixture before steaming.
- If you prefer a richer flavor, drizzle a bit of extra sesame oil or soy sauce over the top just before serving.
Conclusion: Steamed minced pork with salted egg is a dish that showcases the beauty of simple, well-balanced ingredients. The contrast between the savory pork and the rich, salty egg creates a comforting and satisfying meal. With minimal preparation and a short cooking time, this dish is an excellent choice for a quick, nutritious dinner that’s sure to please. Enjoy it as part of a family meal, or savor it on its own with a bowl of warm rice.
