Thousand-Year-Old Eggs (Pidian) Recipe
Alkaline-fermented eggs with a unique flavor, often served with tofu.
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Ingredients
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Main Ingredients
Serving Ingredients
Method
Preparing the Eggs
Prepare the Alkaline Mixture
In a large bowl, mix the clay, quicklime, ash, and salt together. Gradually add water until the mixture is thick and paste-like.
Coat the Eggs
Carefully coat each duck egg with the alkaline mixture, ensuring they are fully covered. Place the coated eggs in a single layer in a container.
Fermentation Process
Cover the container with plastic wrap and let it sit in a cool, dark place for about 3 to 4 weeks. This allows the eggs to ferment and develop their unique flavor.
Serving the Dish
Prepare Tofu
While waiting for the eggs to ferment, prepare the silken tofu by slicing it into bite-sized cubes.
Prepare Garnish
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, chili oil, and chopped green onions to create a dressing.
Plate the Dish
After the fermentation period, remove the eggs from the container, rinse them lightly under cold water to remove excess alkaline mixture, and slice them in half. Serve them alongside the tofu and drizzle the dressing over everything.
