Nian gao (年糕) is a popular Chinese dish, especially enjoyed during Chinese New Year. This dish, which translates to “year cake,” is made from glutinous rice flour and has a chewy, smooth texture. When combined with egg, it transforms into a savory and satisfying meal. Whether you’re preparing this dish for a festive occasion or a simple family meal, here’s a detailed guide on how to cook nian gao with egg, step by step.
Ingredients You Will Need
Before you start cooking, gather all the ingredients. For this dish, you’ll need:
- 1 pound of nian gao (also called Chinese rice cake)
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (or any cooking oil)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped (optional)
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional for extra flavor)
- 1 tablespoon of sugar
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- A handful of chopped green onions or scallions for garnish (optional)
Where to Find Nian Gao
You can usually find nian gao in Asian grocery stores, either fresh or dried. Dried nian gao will need to be soaked before cooking. If you’re using fresh nian gao, you can skip this step and proceed directly to cooking. If you’re using dried ones, soak them for about 2 hours or until they become soft and pliable.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Nian Gao with Egg
Step 1: Prepare the Nian Gao
If you’re using fresh nian gao, you don’t need to do anything extra. Just rinse them under cold water to remove any excess starch and set them aside.
If you’re using dried nian gao, soak the rice cakes in warm water for at least 2 hours before cooking. Once they have softened, drain the water, and set the nian gao aside.
Step 2: Scramble the Eggs
- Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them until well-beaten. You can also add a pinch of salt and a little pepper to the eggs for extra flavor.
- Heat a tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
- Once the oil is hot, pour the beaten eggs into the skillet. Allow the eggs to cook undisturbed for a minute or two.
- Using a spatula, gently stir the eggs and scramble them until fully cooked. When done, remove the scrambled eggs from the pan and set them aside. You should have soft, fluffy scrambled eggs.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of oil.
- Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and chopped onions (if using). Sauté them until fragrant and the onions become translucent. This will take about 2-3 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to avoid burning the garlic, as it can become bitter if overcooked.
Step 4: Cook the Nian Gao
- Add the soaked or fresh nian gao to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the garlic and onions.
- Stir-fry the nian gao for 3-5 minutes. During this time, the rice cakes will absorb the flavors of the garlic and onions. If they start to stick to the pan, you can add a little more oil or a splash of water to prevent burning.
- Once the rice cakes are heated through and slightly crispy on the outside, add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), and sugar to the pan. Stir everything well to coat the rice cakes evenly with the sauce.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the rice cakes are fully infused with the sauce. The rice cakes should have a glossy finish from the soy sauce and sugar mixture.
Step 5: Combine the Eggs and Nian Gao
- Now, it’s time to bring the scrambled eggs back into the dish. Add the cooked eggs to the skillet with the nian gao.
- Gently fold the eggs into the rice cakes, ensuring that they are evenly distributed. The eggs should mix with the sticky rice cakes, creating a soft and creamy texture.
- Stir everything together for another 2 minutes, allowing the eggs to heat through and mix with the rice cakes and sauce.
Step 6: Season and Serve
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning. You can add a little more soy sauce, salt, or pepper if needed. If you like a bit of sweetness, you can add a little more sugar.
- Garnish with chopped green onions or scallions for a burst of color and freshness.
- Serve the nian gao with egg hot, as a main dish or a side. This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a simple soup.
Tips for Perfect Nian Gao with Egg
Soaking Nian Gao: If using dried nian gao, make sure it is softened properly before cooking. If it’s not soaked enough, the texture can be too tough and unpleasant.
Adjust the Sauce: Feel free to adjust the soy sauce and sugar to your taste. Some people prefer a slightly sweeter dish, while others like it more savory.
Adding Meat: For added flavor and protein, you can include sliced pork, chicken, or beef. Simply stir-fry the meat with the garlic and onions before adding the nian gao to the skillet.
Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian version, you can skip the oyster sauce or substitute it with a mushroom-based sauce to maintain the umami flavor.
Spice it Up: If you enjoy spicy food, try adding a bit of chili paste or chopped fresh chili peppers to the dish while sautéing the garlic and onions.
Health Benefits of Nian Gao with Egg
While nian gao with egg is a delicious and satisfying dish, it also offers a few health benefits, particularly when made with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Good Source of Protein: Eggs are a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. By adding eggs to the dish, you not only improve the texture but also boost its nutritional value.
High in Fiber: The glutinous rice used in nian gao provides a good source of fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote healthy gut function.
Vitamin-Rich: Eggs contain essential vitamins like B12, vitamin D, and selenium, which are vital for energy production and maintaining a healthy immune system.
However, nian gao is also high in carbohydrates, so it should be enjoyed in moderation, especially for those who are watching their carb intake or managing conditions like diabetes.
Why You Should Try This Dish
Nian gao with egg is a perfect combination of savory flavors and textures. The chewy, sticky rice cakes pair wonderfully with the soft and fluffy scrambled eggs. The soy sauce, sugar, and oyster sauce (if used) create a perfect balance of salty and sweet, making it an ideal dish for any occasion. Whether you’re celebrating the Lunar New Year or simply craving a comfort food meal, nian gao with egg is sure to satisfy your hunger.
This dish is also customizable, so you can add other ingredients such as vegetables or meat to suit your tastes. It’s an easy and quick meal that requires minimal ingredients and preparation time, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress your guests with something uniquely flavorful.
Final Thoughts
Nian gao with egg is a simple yet delicious dish that is beloved by many in Chinese cuisine. With its chewy rice cakes, savory flavors, and comforting texture, it’s a dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. By following these easy steps, you can recreate this classic dish at home and enjoy the warmth and satisfaction that comes from a home-cooked meal. Whether you’re preparing it for a special occasion or just as a regular family dinner, nian gao with egg is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
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