Preserved duck eggs, often called century eggs, are a delicacy in Asian cuisine. They are enjoyed for their creamy texture and bold, umami flavor. Today we’ll explore various preserved duck egg recipes, offering creative ways to incorporate them into everyday dishes.
What Are Preserved Duck Eggs?
Preserved duck eggs are made by curing duck eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, and salt for several weeks to months. This transforms the egg whites into a dark, jelly-like texture and turns the yolks into a creamy consistency. Their flavor is often described as savory with a hint of ammonia, making them unique and versatile in many dishes.
1. Century Egg Congee (Rice Porridge)
One of the most popular preserved duck egg recipes is century egg congee. This comforting dish combines the creamy texture of congee with the rich flavors of the preserved egg.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup rice
- 6 cups water or chicken broth
- 2 preserved duck eggs, diced
- 1 boneless chicken breast, cooked and shredded
- Salt, soy sauce, green onions, and ginger (to taste)
Instructions:
- Rinse rice and cook in water or broth until it forms a creamy porridge.
- Stir in the diced preserved eggs and shredded chicken.
- Season with soy sauce, salt, and garnish with green onions and ginger.
This simple dish highlights the richness of preserved duck eggs in a smooth and savory broth.
2.Tofu with Preserved Duck Egg
A refreshing cold dish, tofu with preserved duck egg, is perfect for a light appetizer or side dish. The smooth texture of tofu contrasts well with the creamy preserved egg.
Ingredients:
- 1 block of soft tofu
- 2 preserved duck eggs, diced
- Soy sauce, sesame oil, and green onions
Instructions:
- Cut the tofu into small cubes and place it in a serving dish.
- Top with diced preserved duck egg.
- Drizzle soy sauce and sesame oil, and garnish with green onions.
This dish is easy to make and pairs beautifully with rice or other main dishes.
3. Preserved Duck Egg Salad
For a modern twist, try a preserved duck egg salad. This fusion dish brings together the bold flavors of preserved duck eggs with fresh greens and vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 2 preserved duck eggs, diced
- Mixed greens (lettuce, arugula)
- Cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and red onion
- Soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil can be used as a dressing.
Instructions:
- Combine mixed greens and vegetables in a large bowl.
- Top with diced preserved duck eggs.
- Toss with a light soy sauce-based dressing.
This salad offers a balance between the sharpness of the eggs and the freshness of the vegetables.
Nutritional Information
| Recipe | Calories | Protein (g) | Fat (g) | Sodium (mg) | Key Nutrients |
| Century Egg Congee | 250 | 15 | 5 | 700 | Protein, sodium, calcium |
| Tofu with Preserved Duck Egg | 180 | 12 | 10 | 500 | Protein, iron, vitamins A & C |
| Preserved Duck Egg Salad | 200 | 10 | 7 | 600 | Fiber, vitamins A & K, protein |
The preserved duck egg salad is a healthier option for those looking to incorporate more vegetables, while congee is a filling meal perfect for breakfast or lunch.
4. Fried Rice with Preserved Duck Egg
Another excellent way to use preserved duck eggs is in fried rice. The bold flavors of the egg complement the savory stir-fried rice.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 2 preserved duck eggs, diced
- 1 egg (beaten)
- A mix of soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and garlic makes a flavorful combination.
- Vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers)
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a pan, stir-fry garlic and vegetables until soft.
- Add the beaten egg and cook until scrambled.
- Mix in rice, soy sauce, and diced preserved duck eggs.
- Stir-fry until well combined and garnish with green onions.
This dish is versatile and works well with any combination of vegetables or protein.
Health Benefits of Preserved Duck Eggs
Preserved duck eggs are a good source of protein, calcium, and other essential nutrients. However, their curing process can result in a high sodium content. Here’s a quick comparison of the preserved duck egg and regular duck eggs:
| Nutrient | Preserved Duck Egg | Regular Duck Egg |
| Protein | 10g | 9g |
| Sodium | 620mg | 130mg |
| Calcium | 70mg | 55mg |
While preserved duck eggs offer more sodium, they contain a good amount of protein, calcium, and healthy fats. To learn more about the benefits of duck eggs, check the article linked below:
Where to Buy Preserved Duck Eggs
Preserved duck eggs can often be found in Asian grocery stores or specialty markets across the U.S. Online retailers also offer preserved duck eggs, shipping them across the country for convenience.
Preserved duck egg recipes are a flavorful addition to any meal. Whether enjoyed in congee, salads, or fried rice, these bold eggs offer a unique twist. They are versatile, packed with nutrients, and a delicious way to explore new flavors. If you’re new to cooking with preserved duck eggs, try starting with congee for a comforting, beginner-friendly dish.
