Discover the surprisingly satisfying world of grilled vegetarian eggs – a vibrant and flavorful dish inspired by Vietnamese cuisine. Forget everything you think you know about eggs; this recipe utilizes clever substitutes to create a hearty, protein-packed meal that's both delicious and entirely plant-based. Imagine the smoky char of grilled tofu, the gentle heat of chili, and the satisfying crunch of fresh vegetables all coming together in a symphony of textures and tastes. This unique take on a classic breakfast staple is perfect for vegetarians, vegans, and anyone looking for a creative and exciting addition to their culinary repertoire.
This recipe delivers a compelling vegetarian alternative to traditional grilled eggs, boasting a delightful blend of savory and spicy notes. We'll guide you through each step, ensuring you achieve perfectly grilled "eggs" with a satisfyingly crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. Ready to embark on this culinary adventure? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions.
Tools Needed
- Bowl
- Pan
- Egg mold
- Steamer
- Baking tray or small stone bowls
Ingredients
- Fresh Ta Hu Ki (vegetarian bean curd): 200g
- Hem Chai (a type of vegetarian meat): 50g
- Green onions
- Vietnamese coriander
- Lemon
- Tomatoes: 100g
- Sugar: 1 teaspoon
- Vegetarian seasoning: 1 teaspoon
- Chili powder: 1 teaspoon
- Roasted peanuts: 1 tablespoon
- Toc Tien (or seaweed): a small pinch
- Chili sauce
- Vegetarian fish sauce
- Cooking oil
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients and Sauce
- Prepare a bowl of water, soak Toc Tien (or seaweed) for 10 minutes to soften, then wash and set aside.
- Heat a little oil in a pan, add onions (reserve some for garnish later), and sauté tomatoes for about 1 minute. Remove tomatoes and set aside.
- add chili sauce, sugar, vegetarian seasoning, chili powder, vegetarian fish sauce, and salt. Mix well and simmer until thickened.
- Boil Huu Ki bean curd for 3-5 minutes until soft and white. Rinse with cold water, squeeze dry, and tear into small pieces.
- In a bowl, mix the Huu Ki with vegetarian seasoning and chopped Hem Chai. Make sure to squeeze all excess water out.
Step 2. Shape and Steam the Vegetarian Eggs
- Pack the Huu Ki mixture tightly into egg molds.
- Wrap the molds in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent water from seeping in during steaming.
- Steam the eggs for 20-30 minutes.
- Let the eggs cool completely, then remove from molds.
Step 3. Assemble and Grill
- Place the eggs in baking trays or small stone bowls. Top with a spoonful of sautéed tomatoes, chili salt sauce, fried onions, and roasted peanuts.
- Grill on charcoal or a gas stove until heated through and the sauce boils.
Step 4. Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with fresh Vietnamese coriander and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving.
Read more: Vietnamese Grilled Pork: A Delicious BBQ Recipe
Tips
- Choose new and thin Ta Hu Ki leaves for a chewier texture.
- If you can't find Toc Tien, use seaweed instead.
- The tighter you pack the Huu Ki mixture, the chewier the eggs will be.
- Steamed eggs can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
- Adjust the amount of chili to your preferred spice level.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-500
- Fat: 25-35g
- Carbs: 20-30g
- Protein: 20-25g
FAQs
1. What can I use as a substitute for the tofu in this recipe?
Firm or extra-firm tofu works best for grilling. You could also experiment with other firm vegetables like hearts of palm or large mushrooms, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
2. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add more chili flakes or a finely chopped chili pepper to the egg mixture before grilling. You can also drizzle some chili oil over the finished dish.
This Vietnamese-inspired vegetarian grilled egg recipe offers a delicious and satisfying way to enjoy a plant-based breakfast, lunch, or even a light dinner. The combination of smoky char, spicy chili, and savory salt creates an unforgettable flavor profile. Enjoy this unique and flavorful dish, and don't hesitate to experiment with different vegetables and spices to create your own personalized version!