Spiced Tea Eggs (Telur Pindang) Recipe: A Flavorful Asian Snack

Tea Eggs (Telur Pindang)

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon of Bumbu Ngo Hiang (five-spice powder)
• 2 tablespoons of Kecap Hitam (sweet soy sauce)
• 2 dried chilies
• 2 tablespoons of tea leaves (preferably black tea or oolong tea)
• 1/2 cup of sliced onions
• 3 star anise
• 12 eggs
• 4 cups of water
• 1 teaspoon of Himalayan salt

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Spice Mixture: In a large pot, combine the Bumbu Ngo Hiang, Kecap Hitam, dried chilies, tea leaves, sliced onions, and star anise. Pour in 4 cups of water, stirring to blend the spices and flavors together.

2. Add the Eggs: Gently place the eggs into the pot, ensuring they are fully submerged in the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. It is crucial to ensure that the eggs are completely covered by the water during this process.

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3. Crack the Egg Shells: After simmering, remove the eggs from the pot and carefully tap each egg with the back of a spoon to crack the shell. The goal is to create a network of fine cracks on the shell without peeling it off. This will allow the tea and spices to penetrate the eggs more effectively during the subsequent simmering.

4. Simmer and Infuse: Return the cracked eggs to the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer the eggs for an additional 10 minutes. After simmering, turn off the heat and leave the eggs in the flavored liquid. Allow the eggs to cool to room temperature, then cover the pot and refrigerate overnight. This extended steeping period helps the eggs absorb the rich, aromatic flavors of the tea and spices.

5. Serve and Enjoy: Once the eggs have marinated overnight, remove them from the pot. The result should be beautifully marbled eggs with a complex, savory flavor profile. Enjoy the tea eggs as a savory snack, appetizer, or as part of a larger meal.

These tea eggs, or Telur Pindang, are a delightful fusion of flavors and textures, showcasing the rich traditions of Asian cuisine. The meticulous preparation ensures that each bite is infused with a unique blend of spices and tea, making for an unforgettable culinary experience.