Many people have a common question about salted duck eggs- “how to eat salted duck egg” . You can simply peel, slice, and enjoy it with rice or add it to dishes for extra flavor. Salted duck eggs are a versatile and flavorful delicacy, commonly enjoyed across Asian cuisines. Whether used in congee, as a topping for salads, or on its own, this preserved egg brings rich, umami flavors to any meal. Here’s how you can incorporate salted duck eggs into your meals in a few easy steps.
What Is a Salted Duck Egg?
A salted duck egg is a preserved delicacy created by soaking duck eggs in salt brine or packing them in damp, salted charcoal. This process hardens the egg white while the yolk becomes rich and creamy, often with an orange or bright yellow hue. It’s a popular ingredient in many Asian dishes, loved for its savory and slightly salty taste.
How to Eat Salted Duck Egg on Its Own
Salted duck eggs can be eaten as-is after boiling. Here’s how:
- Boil the Egg: Gently place the egg in boiling water and cook for about 10–12 minutes. After that, let the egg cool for some minutes.
- Peel the Egg: Crack the shell carefully and peel it off, making sure to remove all bits of shell.
- Serve: Slice the egg into halves or quarters. Serve with rice or porridge for a simple, savory addition to your meal.
Adding Salted Duck Egg to Dishes
Salted duck eggs can also elevate various dishes, adding complexity to their flavor profile.
- Congee: A classic way to enjoy salted duck eggs is with congee. Simply mix in chopped salted egg to enhance the dish’s umami flavor.
- Salads: Add boiled, diced salted duck egg to a green or pasta salad for a salty twist.
- Stir-fries: Crumble the yolk over stir-fried vegetables or meats, like shrimp or pork, for extra richness.
Using Salted Duck Egg Yolks in Recipes
The yolks of salted duck eggs are prized for their rich, savory flavor and can be used in a variety of recipes:
- Salted Egg Yolk Sauce: Combine mashed yolks with butter and garlic to make a savory sauce for seafood or pasta.
- Baking: Use the yolk in mooncakes, custards, or steamed buns for an extra layer of richness.
Tips for Enjoying Salted Duck Eggs
- Balance the Saltiness: Pair the salted egg with plain dishes like rice, congee, or steamed vegetables to balance out the saltiness.
- Store Properly: Keep leftover salted duck eggs in the fridge, ensuring they remain fresh for up to a week.
Salted Duck Eggs vs. Chicken Eggs
| Nutrient | Salted Duck Egg (50g) | Chicken Egg (50g) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 130 kcal | 70 kcal |
| Protein | 10g | 6g |
| Fat | 11g | 5g |
| Cholesterol | 600mg | 190mg |
| Sodium | 1000mg | 70mg |
| Texture (Yolk) | Creamy, rich | Soft, runny |
| Flavor | Salty, umami | Mild |
Salted duck eggs have a significantly higher sodium and fat content than chicken eggs, contributing to their rich flavor and preserved nature. However, moderation is key due to the high cholesterol and sodium levels.
Where to Buy Salted Duck Eggs
You can find salted duck eggs in many Asian grocery stores, especially in the USA. Look for them in the refrigerated section, or buy them pre-packaged. Some stores even offer fresh, homemade salted eggs.
Are Salted Duck Eggs Healthy?
Salted duck eggs are nutrient-dense, providing high protein and fat. However, due to their salt content, they should be eaten in moderation, particularly for those watching sodium intake.
Salted duck eggs offer a unique and flavorful way to enhance many dishes. Whether eaten alone or as part of a recipe, their rich, creamy yolk and savory taste can transform a simple meal into something special. Enjoy this delicacy while balancing it with other low-sodium foods.
External Resources:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8479051/
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/1864436/nutrients
