Soft Steamed Egg with Anchovy Broth
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Restaurants often serve ‘bomb’ style steamed eggs, sometimes with flying fish roe or baby octopus. However, the current trend favors a soft, soupy steamed egg that’s incredibly comforting and easy to eat. This recipe achieves that delicate texture and a refreshing flavor, enhanced by savory anchovy broth and the umami of shrimp paste. Many find this gentler version even more appealing than the dramatic ‘bomb’ style. It’s perfect as a light side dish or a soothing accompaniment to a meal. Experience the melt-in-your-mouth softness and rich broth that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients- 3 large eggs
- 1 anchovy broth teabag (or a handful of dried anchovies and a small piece of dried kelp)
- 1 cup water (200ml)
- 1 Tbsp chopped green onions (optional)
- 1 tsp shrimp paste (including some of its liquid)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the anchovy broth. In a pot, combine 1 cup (200ml) of water and 1 anchovy broth teabag. Simmer for about 5 minutes to extract a rich broth. If you don’t have a teabag, you can use dried anchovies and kelp. Once the broth is ready, remove the teabag. Stir in 1 teaspoon of shrimp paste until it dissolves completely. The shrimp paste adds a savory depth, eliminating the need for extra salt. If desired, add 1 tablespoon of chopped green onions at this stage.
Step 2
In a large bowl, crack the 3 eggs. Gently beat them with a fork or whisk, making sure to break the chalazae (the white stringy bits) without creating too much foam. Over-beating can lead to a coarser texture when cooked. Slowly pour the beaten eggs into the simmering anchovy broth mixture.
Step 3
After adding the eggs, gently stir with a chopstick or spatula, reaching the bottom of the pot, to break up the egg into small, fluffy curds. This step is crucial for achieving a soft texture. Transfer the mixture to a small pot or an oven-safe dish. Cover with a lid and cook over low heat for about 5 to 7 minutes. Cooking with a lid traps steam, ensuring a tender result. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick; it should come out clean with no wet egg attached.
Step 4
Just before serving, drizzle 1 teaspoon of sesame oil over the perfectly cooked steamed egg for added aroma. Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of toasted sesame seeds as a garnish. This soft steamed egg is incredibly smooth and easy to swallow, making it a favorite for all ages, from children to seniors. The delightful harmony of the anchovy broth and shrimp paste creates a profound umami flavor. While I enjoy the dramatic ‘bomb’ style steamed eggs too, this soft version is truly special. It pairs wonderfully with spicy dishes like stir-fried baby octopus or squid.
