Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups dashi stock
- 4 eggs
- 1 small eggplant, diced
- 4 shiitake mushrooms, sliced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon mirin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Special equipment needed:
- 4 chawanmushi cups or small heatproof bowls
- Steamer
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together the dashi stock, eggs, soy sauce, mirin, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Divide the diced eggplant and sliced shiitake mushrooms evenly among the chawanmushi cups.
3. Pour the egg mixture over the vegetables, filling the cups about 3/4 full.
4. Cover each cup with a piece of aluminum foil.
5. Place the cups in a steamer and steam over medium heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the custard is set.
6. Remove the cups from the steamer and let them cool for a few minutes.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15-20 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for steaming
Serving size:
4 servings
Nutritional information:
Calories: 97
Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 6g
Protein: 7g
Sodium: 702mg
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Dashi stock can be substituted with chicken or vegetable broth.
- Button mushrooms can be used instead of shiitake mushrooms.
- Japanese sake can be used instead of mirin.
Variations:
- Add cooked shrimp or crab meat for a seafood twist.
- Use different vegetables like spinach, corn, or carrots.
- Add a splash of sake or mirin to the egg mixture for extra flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to cover the cups with aluminum foil to prevent water from getting into the custard.
- Use a toothpick to check if the custard is cooked through. If it comes out clean, it's done.
- Serve the chawanmushi warm or at room temperature.
Storage instructions:
Chawanmushi is best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat, steam the chawanmushi cups for a few minutes until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the chawanmushi cups on a platter with a sprig of parsley or cilantro for a pop of color.
Garnishes:
Chopped green onions or herbs like parsley or cilantro.
Pairings:
Serve with a side of steamed rice and miso soup for a complete meal.
Suggested side dishes:
Miso soup, steamed rice, or a simple green salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
If the custard is not set after 20 minutes, continue steaming for a few more minutes until cooked through.
Food safety advice:
Be sure to cook the chawanmushi until the custard is set to avoid any risk of foodborne illness.
Food history:
Chawanmushi is a traditional Japanese dish that translates to "steamed in a tea cup." It is typically made with eggs, dashi stock, and various ingredients like seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms.
Flavor profiles:
Chawanmushi has a delicate and savory flavor with a custard-like texture.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the chawanmushi cups on individual plates or bowls for an elegant presentation.
Related Categories
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Region: Japanese
Taste: Savory, Umami, Earthy, Rich, Comforting