Are you craving a comforting and satisfying meal that captures the essence of your favorite Chinese take-out dish? Look no further than this delightful recipe for Chinese Take-Out Egg Foo Young. Known for its fluffy, pan-fried egg patties filled with vibrant vegetables and topped with a savory brown gravy, this dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also incredibly easy to prepare at home. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up a delicious meal that mirrors the authentic flavors of your local Chinese restaurant, all while using fresh ingredients right from your kitchen.
What makes Egg Foo Young so appealing is its versatility; you can customize it by adding your choice of protein or additional veggies, making it a great option for families and gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some healthy ingredients like bean sprouts and carrots, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition. In this blog post, we’ll take you through the steps to create this egg-cellent dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Why You’ll Love This Chinese Take-Out Egg Foo Young
- Quick and Easy: With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep work, this dish comes together in no time.
- Deliciously Versatile: Customize your Egg Foo Young with various meats and veggies for a unique touch every time.
- Healthier Than Take-Out: Enjoy the same great flavor without the added calories and preservatives of restaurant food.
- Kid-Friendly: The fluffy egg patties are perfect for picky eaters, making mealtime easier.
- Budget-Friendly: This recipe is a wallet-friendly option that can easily feed a crowd.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen and gather all the necessary tools to make your Chinese Take-Out Egg Foo Young a success. Start by ensuring your workspace is clean and organized; this will help streamline the cooking process. For this recipe, you will need a reliable nonstick skillet to create those fluffy egg patties without them sticking, which can ruin your efforts. Additionally, have a mixing bowl and whisk on hand to combine your ingredients thoroughly.
Another important tool is a saucepan where you’ll prepare the savory gravy. Having a measuring cup and spoons will assist in accurately measuring your ingredients, ensuring the best flavor outcome. Once everything is prepped and ready, you’ll be on your way to creating a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Mixture
Begin by heating your nonstick skillet over medium heat, adding just a small amount of vegetable oil to coat the bottom. In a mixing bowl, crack the 6 large eggs and whisk them together until well beaten. Next, incorporate bean sprouts, sliced green onions, finely chopped onion, shredded carrots, soy sauce, and white pepper into the eggs. Mixing these ingredients ensures every bite is bursting with flavor. The inclusion of vegetables not only enhances the dish’s taste but also adds nutritional value, making it a great option for family meals.
Step 2: Cook the Egg Patties
Once your egg mixture is ready, it’s time to form and cook your patties. Using a ladle, scoop portions of the egg mixture and pour them into the hot skillet, forming round patties. Be cautious not to overcrowd the skillet; cooking in batches allows for even cooking and browning. Allow the patties to cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and fully set. Once cooked, carefully remove the patties from the skillet and keep them warm on a plate.
Step 3: Make the Savory Gravy
In a separate saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth and 1 teaspoon of sugar to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, stir in the cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency. If you prefer a lighter gravy, feel free to add a little more broth. This savory gravy adds a delicious finishing touch to your Egg Foo Young, elevating the entire dish.
Variations
- Protein: Add cooked shrimp, chicken, or tofu for a heartier meal.
- Vegetables: Swap in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for a unique taste.
- Spices: Experiment with adding garlic or ginger for an extra kick of flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Cooking the patties in small batches prevents overcrowding and ensures they cook evenly.
- For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Adjust the thickness of the gravy according to your preference by modifying the amount of cornstarch or chicken broth.
- Serve the Egg Foo Young immediately after cooking for the best texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice for a complete meal.
- Add a side of stir-fried vegetables for extra nutrition and color.
Tips
- Keep your nonstick skillet well-greased to prevent the egg patties from sticking.
- Make the gravy a few minutes in advance and keep it warm until ready to serve.
- For a low-carb version, serve the patties without the gravy or over a salad.
- Consider adding some chili sauce or sriracha for those who like a bit of heat.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
FAQs
What is Egg Foo Young?
Egg Foo Young is a traditional Chinese omelet dish made from eggs, vegetables, and sometimes meat, pan-fried to perfection and typically served with a savory gravy.
Can I make Egg Foo Young ahead of time?
While the patties can be made ahead and reheated, they are best when served fresh. The texture is fluffiest just after cooking.
What can I serve with Egg Foo Young?
This dish pairs excellently with steamed rice, fried rice, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Is Egg Foo Young healthy?
Yes! When made with fresh vegetables and lean proteins, Egg Foo Young can be a nutritious meal option, rich in fiber and protein.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Chinese Take-Out Egg Foo Young is a wonderful recipe to bring the taste of your favorite Chinese restaurant into your home kitchen. Its fluffy texture, vibrant vegetables, and savory gravy create a satisfying meal that is not just delicious but also customizable to suit your needs. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients or serving options to make it your own. We invite you to share your thoughts in the comments below, let us know how your Egg Foo Young turned out, and if you tried any unique variations. Whether for a family dinner or a cozy night in, this dish is sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
Print
Chinese Take-Out Egg Foo Young
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Known for its fluffy, pan-fried egg patties filled with vibrant vegetables and topped with a savory brown gravy, this dish is not only a treat for your taste buds but also incredibly easy to prepare at home.
Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup sliced green onions
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Instructions
- Begin by heating your nonstick skillet over medium heat, adding just a small amount of vegetable oil to coat the bottom. In a mixing bowl, crack the 6 large eggs and whisk them together until well beaten. Next, incorporate bean sprouts, sliced green onions, finely chopped onion, shredded carrots, soy sauce, and white pepper into the eggs. Mixing these ingredients ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
- Once your egg mixture is ready, it’s time to form and cook your patties. Using a ladle, scoop portions of the egg mixture and pour them into the hot skillet, forming round patties. Be cautious not to overcrowd the skillet; cooking in batches allows for even cooking and browning. Allow the patties to cook for about 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and fully set.
- In a separate saucepan, bring 1 1/2 cups of chicken broth and 1 teaspoon of sugar to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Once simmering, stir in the cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of water, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Continue to cook until the gravy thickens to your desired consistency.
Notes
Cooking the patties in small batches prevents overcrowding and ensures they cook evenly. For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Protein: 15 g