Anhui Style Egg Dumplings
An Exquisite Chinese Appetizer with a Flavorful Twist
Discover a delightful combination of savory eggs, aromatic spices, and perfectly cooked rice with this Anhui Style Egg Dumpling recipe. A versatile dish that can serve as an appetizer or a delightful side when paired with Sichuan-style fried rice, these dumplings are packed with vibrant flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
This recipe is a celebration of traditional Chinese cuisine, with influences from the Anhui region known for its unique culinary offerings. The lightness of eggs and the depth of flavor from ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and chili sauce come together to create a mouthwatering dish. Whether you’re a fan of egg-based dishes or a lover of Chinese food, Anhui Style Egg Dumplings are a must-try!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Whole Eggs | 2 |
| Ginger (finely chopped) | 1/2 inch (for rice) + 1 inch (for egg mixture) |
| Garlic (finely chopped) | 4 cloves |
| Onion (finely chopped) | 1 |
| Rice (boiled) | 1/4 cup |
| Soy Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Red Chilli Sauce | 1 tablespoon |
| Sugar | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Spring Onion (Bulb & Greens) | 2 sprigs |
| Black Pepper Powder | To taste |
| Salt | To taste |
| Sunflower Oil (for cooking) | As needed |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 150 kcal |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Carbohydrates | 18 g |
| Fats | 7 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 280 mg |
| Sugar | 2 g |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Chinese
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Eggetarian
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Rice
Begin by cooking the rice. To do this, place the rice in a pressure cooker and cook it partially, releasing the pressure naturally once the rice is halfway done. This will help achieve the perfect texture for the dumplings. Set the rice aside after cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a small skillet, heat some sunflower oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped ginger, garlic, and onion, and sauté them for a few minutes until they soften and release their aromatic fragrance. Be careful not to burn them. Once they are softened, add the soy sauce, red chili sauce, and sugar, and stir everything together to combine.
Step 3: Combine the Rice and Seasonings
Transfer the partially cooked rice into the skillet with the sautéed aromatics. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Toss the ingredients together so that the rice is evenly coated with the sauce and seasonings. Once mixed, add the chopped spring onions (both the bulb and greens) and give the rice a final toss. Set this mixture aside.
Step 4: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a separate bowl, crack the two eggs and season them with a pinch of salt and pepper. Add the remaining finely chopped ginger to the eggs, and then beat the mixture until the ingredients are well combined. The ginger will add a fresh, aromatic note to the eggs.
Step 5: Cook the Egg Dumplings
Heat another small skillet over medium heat and add a little sunflower oil. Once the oil is hot, pour two tablespoons of the egg mixture into the center of the pan. Allow it to spread out slightly, forming a small circle. Cook the egg for about 1-2 minutes or until the edges begin to set.
Now, place a tablespoon of the prepared rice mixture onto one end of the cooked egg. Gently fold the egg over the rice, creating a small dumpling. Leave the dumpling on the skillet for another 10 seconds to allow it to set further and to ensure the egg is fully cooked.
Step 6: Serve the Dumplings
Once the Anhui Style Egg Dumplings are cooked, remove them from the skillet and serve immediately. These dumplings are delicious as a light appetizer on their own or paired with a side of Sichuan-style fried rice for a complete meal. The combination of flavors in this dish is both comforting and refreshing, making it perfect for any occasion.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these dumplings as a part of a larger Chinese meal, alongside dishes like Sichuan-style fried rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a hot and sour soup. They also make for a great snack or appetizer for gatherings and parties.
Tips and Variations
- If you prefer a spicier kick, feel free to increase the amount of red chili sauce or add a pinch of chili flakes to the egg mixture.
- You can also add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers to the rice mixture to make the dish more hearty and colorful.
- For a non-vegetarian twist, cooked chicken or shrimp can be added to the rice mixture for added protein.
Why You’ll Love Anhui Style Egg Dumplings
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of only 5 minutes, this dish is perfect for when you’re short on time but want something flavorful.
- Aromatic: The ginger, garlic, and soy sauce work in harmony to infuse the dumplings with incredible depth of flavor.
- Versatile: You can serve these dumplings as a snack, appetizer, or a side dish, and they pair well with a variety of Chinese dishes.
- Light Yet Satisfying: The combination of eggs and rice makes this dish light but filling, perfect for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
This Anhui Style Egg Dumpling recipe brings a little piece of China to your kitchen. Its easy preparation and bold flavors make it a wonderful dish to introduce to your family and friends. Try it today and enjoy a delightful, authentic taste of Anhui cuisine!
