There’s a wonderful comfort in homemade dishes that transport you to different corners of the world, and today, I want to share a delightful recipe that does just that. When I first stumbled upon the idea of pairing silky steamed egg custard with a spicy pork topping, I was intrigued by how these two elements could harmonize so beautifully. The gentle, velvety texture of the custard balances perfectly with the vibrant and bold flavors of the pork, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and unique.
Imagine the steaming bowl arriving at the table, its aroma filling the room with hints of garlic, ginger, and a subtle kick from the chillies. Whether you’re entertaining friends or just seeking a cozy weeknight meal, this Steamed Egg Custard with Spicy Pork is versatile enough to impress any palate. It’s quick to prepare, and each bite offers a symphony of flavors that will make you forget all about takeout. Ready to awaken your taste buds? Let’s dive into this incredible recipe!
Why is Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork a Must-Try?
Comforting and Unique: This dish offers a comforting blend of silky steamed egg custard topped with robustly flavored, spicy pork that you won’t find anywhere else.
Quick Preparation: With simple steps and minimal ingredients, this recipe is perfect for home cooks looking for effortless meals that impress.
Bursting with Flavor: The harmony of garlic, ginger, and chilies creates a culinary experience that tantalizes your taste buds.
Versatile Delight: Whether served as a light lunch or a main course for dinner, it caters to every occasion and palate.
Great for Meal Prep: Easily make ahead, allowing you to enjoy a homemade dish on a busy weeknight without the hassle.
Transform your dining with this delightful recipe that’ll make takeout seem boring in comparison – you won’t regret trying it!
Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork Ingredients
Unlock the vibrant flavors of this delightful dish!
For the Spicy Pork
- Vegetable oil – Aids in stir-frying and adds richness to the flavor.
- Garlic cloves – Enhances the aromatic base with a savory kick.
- Birdseye red chillies – Provides a spicy heat that elevates the dish.
- Ginger – Adds warmth and a fresh zing to the pork topping.
- Minced pork – The star protein that carries all the savory flavors.
- Doubanjiang – This spicy bean paste introduces a layered umami essence.
- Whole Sichuan peppercorns – Adds a unique, tingly heat that’s signature to Chinese cuisine.
- Chinese soy sauce – Brings depth and saltiness to the overall flavor.
- Oyster sauce – Complements the dish with rich, savory notes.
- Chinese Shaoxing wine – Adds complexity with its sweet, aromatic notes.
- Caster sugar – Balances out the spice with a hint of sweetness.
- Chicken stock – Provides moisture and enhances the dish’s richness.
- Spring onions – Finish with a fresh crunch and vibrant color.
- Chilli oil (optional) – Drizzle for an extra layer of heat.
For the Steamed Egg Custard
- Unsweetened soy milk – A creamy base that adds depth to the custard.
- Eggs – Essential for creating a silky, delicate texture in the custard.
- Chinese soy sauce – Infuses the custard with a savory undertone enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Dive into this delicious combination of Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork that will redefine your home cooking experience!
How to Make Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork
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Whisk the custard: In a large bowl, combine the unsweetened soy milk, lightly whisked eggs, and Chinese soy sauce. Blend until smooth and pour into a shallow serving bowl.
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Steam gently: Place the bowl in a steamer and steam for about 10 minutes, or until the custard is just set and exhibits a lovely, silky texture.
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Heat the wok: Meanwhile, heat the vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped garlic, chillies, and ginger. Stir-fry for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant and aromatic.
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Cook the pork: Add the minced pork to the wok, stir-frying until it’s just cooked through, ensuring it’s no longer pink.
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Incorporate the seasoning: Stir in the doubanjiang and whole Sichuan peppercorns, continuing to stir-fry for another half minute. Then, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, caster sugar, and chicken stock.
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Simmer the sauce: Allow the mixture to simmer for about 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Toss the finely sliced spring onions into the mixture just before finishing.
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Assemble the dish: Spoon the spicy pork topping generously over the steamed egg custard and drizzle with chilli oil if you desire an extra kick. Serve warm and enjoy!
Optional: Garnish with additional spring onions for a fresh crunch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork dishes are ideal for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the spicy pork up to 3 days ahead; simply cook it as directed, let it cool completely, and refrigerate in an airtight container. For the steamed egg custard, you can whisk the mixture (soy milk, eggs, and soy sauce) and keep it covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, steam the custard for about 10 minutes until just set, and reheat the pork gently on the stovetop. This way, you’ll have a comforting, homemade meal ready in no time!
Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork Variations
Feel free to give this recipe your personal touch with some delightful twists!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute unsweetened soy milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a lactose-free version while keeping the creamy texture.
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Vegetarian: Swap minced pork for crumbled firm tofu or tempeh, adding a splash of soy sauce for enhanced flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy the dish without meat!
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Mild Option: Reduce or omit the birdseye chillies in both the pork and custard for a family-friendly version that still delights with flavor.
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Herb Boost: Add fresh cilantro or mint to the spicy pork mixture just before serving for a refreshing twist and vibrant aroma that elevates the dish.
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Extra Crunch: Toss in finely chopped water chestnuts or bamboo shoots into the pork for added texture that creates a satisfying bite alongside the creamy custard.
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Spicy Variations: Use different chili sauces, such as Sriracha or chili garlic sauce, to give your toppings a unique kick that’s tailored to your heat preference.
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Savory Additions: Incorporate finely diced bell peppers or mushrooms into the pork for added depth and nutrition, making every bite a little more exciting.
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Noodle Comfort: Serve the spicy pork over a bed of steamed rice or noodles for a heartier meal that transforms this dish into a satisfying feast.
How to Store and Freeze Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or steam until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat the steamed egg custard in a steamer to maintain its silky texture or gently microwave it.
Serving Tip: When ready to enjoy, top with fresh spring onions and a drizzle of chilli oil to refresh the flavors and presentation.
Expert Tips for Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork
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Perfect Steam: Ensure your water is bubbling before placing the custard bowl; this guarantees even cooking and a silky texture.
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Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the custard while it steams; overcooking can lead to a rubbery texture. Aim for just set.
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Mix Thoroughly: For the spicy pork, ensure the doubanjiang is well incorporated to avoid clumps; this ensures a smooth flavor throughout.
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Balance Flavors: Adjust the sugar and soy sauce to your taste; a touch of sugar can help harmonize the heat from the chillies in your spicy pork.
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Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of extra spring onions or a drizzle of chilli oil not only enhances flavor but also adds a beautiful visual appeal to the dish.
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Batch for Later: This recipe is excellent for meal prep; make extra and store in the fridge, reheating for quick, delicious meals later in the week.
What to Serve with Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork?
Elevate your dining experience by exploring delectable sides and beverages to accompany this mouthwatering dish!
- Jasmine Rice: A fragrant grain that soaks up the spicy flavors, making every bite a delight.
- Stir-Fried Greens: Bright and crunchy vegetables like bok choy or snow peas add freshness and a pop of color to your plate.
- Garlic Noodles: Rich, buttery noodles swirled with garlic create a lovely contrast to the savory pork topping.
- Chinese Pickled Vegetables: These tangy bites cleanse the palate, balancing the spiciness of the pork and adding complexity.
- Chili Oil Drizzle: Elevate the dish further with a splash of chili oil for those who crave extra heat.
- Crispy Spring Rolls: Perfect for sharing, these crispy treats add a satisfying crunch and enhance the meal experience.
- Ginger Tea: A warm, soothing drink that complements the flavors and aids digestion after the meal.
- Mango Sticky Rice: As a sweet finish, this traditional dessert brings a creamy sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the dish.
Dive into these pairings, and your Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork dinner will be a delightful journey for your taste buds!
Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, especially the chilies, look for vibrant red ones that are firm to the touch. The garlic should be fresh, with no signs of sprouting or dark spots, while the ginger should feel smooth and firm. Fresh minced pork is ideal if it has a bright pink hue and a clean smell.
How should I store leftovers from this dish?
Very simple! After enjoying your meal, let any leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container. Store in the fridge, and you can enjoy them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, gently reheat in the microwave or through steaming to keep that lovely texture intact!
Can I freeze Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork?
Absolutely, you can! For freezing, portion the spicy pork and custard into airtight containers. It’ll stay good in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and then reheat the custard in a steamer for the best texture. The spicy pork can be reheated in a pan over low heat.
What should I do if the egg custard is too runny?
If you find the egg custard is runny after steaming, it may not have been cooked long enough or at a high enough temperature. Verify your steamer is hot enough before starting, and consider steaming it for an additional 2-5 minutes. Always check its doneness with a gentle shake – it should have a slight jiggle but not liquefy.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Great question! This dish contains eggs and soy, which some people may be allergic to. If you’re cooking for others, let them know about these ingredients. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute traditional soy sauce with tamari. Also, ensure your doubanjiang is gluten-free if needed.
Can I adjust the spice level to suit my taste?
Very much so! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount of birdseye chillies or even omit them altogether for just a hint of spice. Alternatively, if you like it spicier, try adding more chillies or a splash of hot sauce to the spicy pork mix for an extra kick!
Heavenly Steamed Egg Custard & Spicy Pork Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large bowl, combine the unsweetened soy milk, lightly whisked eggs, and Chinese soy sauce. Blend until smooth and pour into a shallow serving bowl.
- Place the bowl in a steamer and steam for about 10 minutes, or until the custard is just set and exhibits a lovely, silky texture.
- Meanwhile, heat the vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped garlic, chillies, and ginger. Stir-fry for approximately 30 seconds until fragrant and aromatic.
- Add the minced pork to the wok, stir-frying until it’s just cooked through, ensuring it's no longer pink.
- Stir in the doubanjiang and whole Sichuan peppercorns, continuing to stir-fry for another half minute. Then, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, Shaoxing wine, caster sugar, and chicken stock.
- Allow the mixture to simmer for about 4-5 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly. Toss the finely sliced spring onions into the mixture just before finishing.
- Spoon the spicy pork topping generously over the steamed egg custard and drizzle with chilli oil if you desire an extra kick. Serve warm and enjoy!