If the idea of diving into a creamy treat lights up your senses, the Hong Kong-style milk egg in minutes promises ethereal satisfaction. Envision the lusciousness of Creme Brûlée, sans the caramelized cap. And here’s a tidbit: this Cantonese gem is simpler to concoct than you’d think.
Why Do Chinese Desserts Favor Steaming?
The absence of ovens in traditional Chinese kitchens explains the popularity of steamed desserts. Even in contemporary China, household ovens remain a luxury. While the baking trend is catching on with compact electric ovens filling the void, traditional Chinese sweets predominantly rely on methods like steaming, frying, or boiling. So yes, even a cake can find its way out of a steamer!
The Charm of This Milky Delight
Originating from Hong Kong and Macau, this creamy pudding has won countless hearts. Its admirers range from women, attracted by its skin-loving properties, to elders valuing its rich nutrients. Children? They’re simply smitten by its velvety texture and tantalizing sweetness.
What’s more? Its adaptability is remarkable. Relish it warm on a cozy evening or chilled during summer days. Top it with a vibrant array of fresh fruits for a dessert soirée or turn it into a power-packed breakfast with granola and nuts. Ever thought of pairing it with red bean and mochi? The possibilities are endless. While vanilla extract is my personal flavor enhancer, don’t shy away from experimenting with almond, ginger, or even coconut.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup whole milk
- 3/4 cup light cream
- ¼ cup sugar
- 2 robust egg whites, whisked
- 3 droplets of vanilla essence
- Toppings of your choice—lush fruits, granola, crunchy nuts, and more.
Steps to Silky Perfection:
- Set a steamer with water and let it roll into a boil. Simultaneously, in a saucepan, gently warm the milk, cream, and sugar. Ensure the sugar melts but the mixture remains lukewarm.
- Vigorously whisk the egg whites in a spacious bowl, introducing the milk blend and vanilla essence gradually. Blend seamlessly.
- Sieve this liquid concoction using a fine strainer. Portion it into three heatproof serving dishes (ideal size: 3-4 inches in diameter). Seal each dish with foil. Once the steamer’s bubbling, nestle the dishes inside. Depending on your dish size, steam for 8-10 minutes. Post steaming, let them bask inside for another 10 minutes before unveiling.
- Dress with toppings of your whim and serve as per your mood—warm or chilled.
Topping Tip: Remember, the nutritional content here accounts only for the pudding, leaving the topping’s essence for you to decipher!
Steaming, as a cooking technique, retains the original taste of ingredients, making dishes more authentic in flavor. Not only is it an energy-saving method, but it also preserves the nutrients in food, especially when compared to boiling. The soft, moist heat ensures vitamins and minerals stay intact. This Cantonese Steamed Milk Egg Pudding isn’t just a treat for the taste buds but also a wholesome delight. So, the next time you dive into its creamy depths, remember, you’re not just indulging; you’re nourishing your body.