Looking for a light yet satisfying brunch option? This savory Chinese egg custard is silky, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with friends and family. With just four simple ingredients, it’s an ideal dish to brighten your brunch table.

Why I Love This Recipe

I stumbled upon this egg custard recipe during a family gathering, where my aunt served it as a side dish. Instantly, I was captivated by its delicate texture and rich flavor. Since then, I’ve made it for countless brunches, and it never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Love It Too

  • Quick to prepare and bake
  • Simple ingredients that are often on hand
  • Delightfully smooth and satisfying
  • Customizable with toppings like scallions or soy sauce
  • A unique addition to your traditional brunch spread

Ingredient Notes

The 4 main ingredients for this dish are eggs, chicken broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Use large eggs for best texture, organic chicken broth for extra flavor, low-sodium soy sauce as a healthier option, and high-quality sesame oil for a nutty aroma. Each ingredient plays a key role in enhancing the overall dish.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, beat 4 large eggs until well combined, then gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth.
  2. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
  3. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil.
  4. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until set.
  5. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing; serve warm with extra soy sauce or scallions if desired.

Things I’ve Learned

To ensure a smooth custard, avoid over-beating the eggs. If you find that the custard has bubbles after baking, gently tapping the dish against the counter can help release trapped air. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals until warmed through. This dish can also be made ahead and baked right before serving.

FAQs

Q: Can I substitute the chicken broth?

A: Yes, vegetable broth works well for a vegetarian version

Q: How can I customize the flavor?

A: Feel free to add minced garlic, ginger, or chopped herbs to the egg mixture for added depth

Q: What’s the best way to store leftovers?

A: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days

Q: Can I make this dish dairy-free?

A: Absolutely, this recipe is already dairy-free, making it great for various dietary needs

Four-Ingredient Savory Chinese Egg Custard

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with oil.
  2. In a mixing bowl, beat 4 large eggs until well combined, then gradually whisk in 2 cups of chicken broth.
  3. Add 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil, stirring well to combine all ingredients.
  4. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and cover it with aluminum foil.
  5. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 15 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes until set.
  6. Allow it to cool slightly before slicing; serve warm with extra soy sauce or scallions if desired.

This recipe has become a go-to favorite in my kitchen, and I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine!