Egg with Tomatoes: Chinese Home-Style Recipe
Introduction
Egg with tomatoes is a classic Chinese home-style dish, beloved for its simplicity and rich flavor. This recipe is quick to prepare and often serves as a staple comfort food in Chinese households. Its beauty lies in its minimalistic approach—just a few ingredients that, when combined, produce a dish greater than the sum of its parts. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced cook, this recipe is a delightful way to bring a taste of traditional Chinese cooking into your kitchen.
Recipe Overview
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Prep Time: 3 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per Serving: 95
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Course: Main Course, Side Dish
Ingredients
- 2 Tomatoes: Firm and ripe, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
- 4 Eggs: Fresh, beaten.
- Olive Oil: For cooking the eggs and tomatoes.
- 1 tablespoon Rice Vinegar: Provides a tangy balance to the dish.
- 2 teaspoons Cornstarch: Mixed with a small amount of water for thickening the sauce.
- 1 Green Onion: Chopped; use both white and green parts.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste.
- Optional: 1 teaspoon Sesame Oil (for added flavor).
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 95
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.7g
- Cholesterol: 186mg
- Sodium: 74.1mg
- Carbohydrates: 3.4g
- Fiber: 0.7g
- Sugar: 1.8g
- Protein: 6.8g
Instructions
-
Prepare the Ingredients:
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- Chop the Tomatoes: Prepare 2 tomatoes by chopping them into bite-sized pieces.
-
Cook the Eggs:
- Heat the Pan: Add a bit of olive oil to the pan and turn up the heat to medium-high.
- Add the Egg Mixture: Pour the beaten eggs into the pan. Let them set slightly, then gently break them into pieces using a spatula. Cook for less than 2 minutes, just until the eggs are almost done. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
-
Cook the Tomatoes:
- Heat More Oil: Add a little more olive oil to the pan.
- Add the Tomatoes: Toss in the chopped tomatoes and cook until they start to soften.
- Season: Add 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar and a pinch of sugar. Stir and cook until you can smell the rich aroma of the tomatoes.
-
Combine:
- Return Eggs to the Pan: Add the partially cooked eggs back into the pan with the tomatoes.
- Add Green Onion: Sprinkle the green part of the chopped green onion over the mixture.
-
Thicken the Sauce:
- Mix Cornstarch and Water: In a small bowl, mix 2 teaspoons of cornstarch with a little more than 1 teaspoon of water to create a slurry.
- Toss: Pour the cornstarch mixture into the pan and toss everything together. The sauce should thicken slightly and coat the eggs and tomatoes.
-
Serve:
- Final Toss: Give everything one last gentle toss to ensure even coating.
- Serve Hot: Transfer to a serving dish and enjoy while hot.
Tips and Variations
- Adjusting Flavor: Feel free to tweak the seasoning. Some prefer adding a touch of soy sauce or even a pinch of sugar to balance the tanginess.
- Vegetable Additions: For added nutrition, you can include other vegetables like bell peppers or peas.
- Protein Boost: Incorporate small pieces of cooked chicken or shrimp for a more substantial meal.
Cultural Context
Egg with tomatoes is not only a staple in Chinese cuisine but also a comfort food that evokes nostalgia for many. It’s often one of the first dishes taught to children, symbolizing the simplicity and warmth of home cooking. This dish is cherished for its ability to transform basic ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Pairing Suggestions
- Rice: Serve over steamed white or brown rice for a complete meal.
- Soup: Pair with a light Chinese soup, such as a simple miso soup or a clear broth with vegetables.
- Green Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy dressing complements the rich and savory flavors of the egg and tomatoes.
FAQ
1. Can I use canned tomatoes?
- While fresh tomatoes are preferred for their texture and flavor, you can use canned tomatoes in a pinch. Be sure to drain them well before adding to the pan.
2. What can I use instead of rice vinegar?
- If rice vinegar is not available, you can substitute it with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar.
3. How do I store leftovers?
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
4. Can I make this dish in advance?
- This dish is best enjoyed fresh. However, you can prepare the egg and tomato mixture separately and combine them just before serving to save time.
Conclusion
Egg with tomatoes is a beloved dish that showcases the elegance of Chinese home-style cooking. Its quick preparation and delightful flavor make it a perfect choice for any meal. Whether you’re a fan of traditional Chinese cuisine or just looking for a new way to enjoy eggs and tomatoes, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients or adjust the seasoning to suit your taste. Enjoy this simple yet profoundly satisfying dish that brings the warmth of home to your table.