Chinese Style Stir Fried Tomato With Egg – Culinary Chase
Before diving into the delightful nuances of Chinese style stir fried tomato with egg, let’s explore what you can enjoy alongside this dish. Each pairing enhances the experience, allowing the vibrant flavors to shine even more. Steamed Jasmine Rice, Stir-Fried Bok Choy, Spring Rolls etc.
With these pairings in mind, let’s jump into this culinary adventure.
When I think of comfort food, one dish leaps to mind: Chinese style stir fried tomato with egg. This dish offers a delicious sweet-savory balance, made with just a handful of ingredients.
My palate craves the umami from the sesame oil and the bright acidity from the tomatoes. Each bite transports me to a bustling kitchen somewhere in China, filled with laughter and sizzling pans.
This simple recipe has roots deeply embedded in Chinese cooking traditions. Yet, it appeals to all cultures, making it a delightful culinary bridge. Allow me to take you through this flavorful experience.
You will also like the following Side Dish recipes!
What Is Chinese Style Stir Fried Tomato with Egg?
At its core, Chinese style stir fried tomato with egg is a dish featuring ripe tomatoes stir-fried to a tender state and gently scrambled eggs. It’s a staple in many homes, recognized for its heartwarming nature and straightforward preparation. This dish binds simplicity with flavor, making it suitable for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Rich in protein and vitamins, this dish boasts health benefits while satisfying your cravings. It’s quick to whip up and tantalize your taste buds with a blend of sweetness from the tomatoes and richness from the eggs.
Why Does This Recipe Work?
This dish has held its reputation for good reasons. Allow me to outline why it stands out.
1. Quick Cooking Time: You can prepare this dish in less than 15 minutes. It’s perfect for busy evenings when you want something nourishing but don’t have hours to spend in the kitchen.
2. Simple Ingredients: Using just a handful of common ingredients makes it accessible. You likely have eggs and tomatoes in your kitchen already.
3. Versatile Meal: This dish can be enjoyed as a main course or a side dish. It works well with rice or noodles and pairs beautifully with various vegetables.
4. Nutrient-Rich: Eggs provide high-quality protein while tomatoes offer essential vitamins and antioxidants. This dish is both satisfying and healthy.
With these compelling reasons, it’s easy to see why this recipe deserves a place in your meal rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
Let’s gather the essentials. Here’s what you’ll need to make this dish shine:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 scallion, finely chopped
- 4 small to medium ripe tomatoes (about 500g, or 1 pound)
- ½ teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon Shaoxing rice wine
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (divided)
- 2 teaspoons sugar (or to adjust to taste)
- ¾ teaspoon salt (divided, or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon white pepper
- ¼ to ½ cup water, as needed
- ½ teaspoon ginger, finely grated (for a hint of freshness)
Gathering these components is the first step toward creating something delightful!
How to Make Chinese Style Stir Fried Tomato with Egg?
Now let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by dicing your tomatoes into medium-sized pieces. You want them juicy but not so small that they disintegrate. Next, whisk the eggs in a bowl with a pinch of the salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil shimmering but not smoking. That’s the sweet spot for great stir-frying.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
Once the oil is hot, pour in the whisked eggs. Gently stir until they start to set. Don’t overcook! You want soft, fluffy eggs. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Scallions and Tomatoes
Add another tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Toss in the finely chopped scallions and sauté them for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the diced tomatoes, stirring them to ensure they heat evenly.
Step 5: Season the Tomatoes
Here comes the magic! Pour in the Shaoxing rice wine and sprinkle the sugar, white pepper, and remaining salt over the tomatoes. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the tomatoes soften. If it looks too dry, add a bit of water.
Step 6: Reintroduce the Eggs
Return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Gently fold them into the tomato mixture. Drizzle in the toasted sesame oil and grate in the ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
Give the dish a taste. If you want more sweetness or saltiness, add more to taste.
Step 8: Serve
Serve immediately over rice or enjoy on its own. It’s simple, quick, and absolutely delicious!
Tips & Tricks
Here are some tried-and-true tips for perfecting your stir-fry:
- Use Ripe Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes draw out the best flavors. Look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak the salt and sugar levels according to your preference.
- Don’t Overcook the Eggs: For that soft texture, remove the eggs slightly before they’re fully set.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers or spinach. Just sauté along with the tomatoes.
- Serve Hot and Fresh: The flavors are vibrant when served immediately.
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
If you happen to have leftovers, no problem! Store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They can last up to three days.
Just reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture.
What Sides Would Complement Chinese Style Stir Fried Tomato with Egg?
When serving this dish, consider these delightful side options:
1. Steamed Dumplings: Their chewy texture and savory fillings create an enjoyable contrast to the soft tomatoes and eggs.
2. Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad, tossed with sesame oil, adds crunchiness and balances the meal’s richness.
3. Hot and Sour Soup: This warming soup brings a yin-yang balance. The spice and tang enhance the whole meal experience.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?
No worries if you can’t find every ingredient! Here are some substitutions:
1. Eggs: If you don’t have eggs, try tofu. Crumbled firm tofu mimics the texture and brings in protein.
2. Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes work well in a pinch. Just adjust the cooking time to avoid mushiness.
3. Shaoxing Rice Wine: A splash of dry sherry or white wine will substitute nicely without lose all the intricacies of flavor.
4. Sesame Oil: If you lack sesame oil, olive oil or peanut oil can fill in, although the flavor will change slightly.
Chinese Style Stir Fried Tomato With Egg
Equipment
- large frying pan
Ingredients
- 4 large eggs
- 1 scallion finely chopped
- 4 small to medium ripe tomatoes about 500g, or 1 pound
- 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon Shaoxing rice wine
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil divided
- 2 teaspoons sugar or adjust to taste
- 3/4 teaspoon salt divided, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
- 1/4 to 1/2 cup water as needed
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger finely grated (for a hint of freshness)
Instructions
- Now let’s roll up our sleeves and get cooking!
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Begin by dicing your tomatoes into medium-sized pieces. You want them juicy but not so small that they disintegrate. Next, whisk the eggs in a bowl with a pinch of the salt. Set aside.
Step 2: Heat the Oil
- In a large frying pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want the oil shimmering but not smoking. That’s the sweet spot for great stir-frying.
Step 3: Scramble the Eggs
- Once the oil is hot, pour in the whisked eggs. Gently stir until they start to set. Don’t overcook! You want soft, fluffy eggs. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
Step 4: Sauté the Scallions and Tomatoes
- Add another tablespoon of oil to the same pan. Toss in the finely chopped scallions and sauté them for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Next, add the diced tomatoes, stirring them to ensure they heat evenly.
Step 5: Season the Tomatoes
- Here comes the magic! Pour in the Shaoxing rice wine and sprinkle the sugar, white pepper, and remaining salt over the tomatoes. Cook for about 3-5 minutes until the tomatoes soften. If it looks too dry, add a bit of water.
Step 6: Reintroduce the Eggs
- Return the scrambled eggs to the pan. Gently fold them into the tomato mixture. Drizzle in the toasted sesame oil and grate in the ginger. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Step 7: Taste and Adjust
- Give the dish a taste. If you want more sweetness or saltiness, add more to taste.
Step 8: Serve
- Serve immediately over rice or enjoy on its own. It’s simple, quick, and absolutely delicious!
Notes
- Use Ripe Tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes draw out the best flavors. Look for ones that are slightly soft to the touch.
- Adjust Seasonings to Taste: Feel free to tweak the salt and sugar levels according to your preference.
- Don’t Overcook the Eggs: For that soft texture, remove the eggs slightly before they’re fully set.
- Experiment with Vegetables: Feel free to add bell peppers or spinach. Just sauté along with the tomatoes.
- Serve Hot and Fresh: The flavors are vibrant when served immediately.
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is this dish vegan-friendly?
You can easily modify this to suit a vegan diet by using tofu instead of eggs. It will provide a similar texture and protein content.
2. Can I add proteins like chicken or shrimp?
Absolutely! Feel free to add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost. Just remember to adjust cooking times accordingly.
3. How spicy is this dish?
This dish isn’t inherently spicy. However, you can add chili flakes or fresh chilies for a kick if you prefer heat.
4. Can this dish be frozen?
While you can freeze it, the texture may change. It’s better enjoyed fresh. If freezing, eat it within a month for optimal flavor.
5. What if I don’t like tomatoes?
If tomatoes aren’t your thing, consider using bell peppers or squash. Just sauté until they soften, similar to the tomatoes.
6. How do you make it less oily?
To reduce oil, use less for cooking or non-stick pans. The dish remains tasty even with moderate oil.
Conclusion
As I wrap up this journey into the world of Chinese style stir fried tomato with egg, I can’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction. This dish, so simple yet utterly delightful, deserves a spot in your culinary repertoire.
With its accessible ingredients and quick preparation, it’s perfect for any busy home cook. Whether paired with rice, mixed into a salad, or enjoyed alongside crispy dumplings, each bite showcases the beauty of Chinese cuisine.
So grab your apron, gather those ingredients, and dive into a dish that’s bursting with flavor and warmth. You won’t regret it!