The Ultimate Guide to Century Eggs: Price, Types, and Culinary Applications
Century eggs, also known as preserved eggs, are a unique delicacy that has piqued the curiosity of food lovers worldwide. Often associated with Chinese cuisine, these eggs are not actually a century old, but rather, they undergo a fascinating preservation process that transforms their appearance and taste. This guide will delve into everything you need to know about century eggs, including their price, types, applications, and much more.
Century Egg Comparison Table
| Type of Century Egg | Ingredients Used | Typical Flavor Profile | Common Applications | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Duck Century Egg | Duck eggs, clay, ash, salt, lime, rice hulls | Rich, earthy, umami | Congee, salads, appetizers | $0.70 – $1.00 each |
| Quail Century Egg | Quail eggs, clay, ash, salt, lime, rice hulls | Delicate, slightly sweet | Sushi, gourmet dishes | $1.00 – $1.50 each |
| Chicken Century Egg | Chicken eggs, clay, ash, salt, lime, rice hulls | Creamy, mild | Egg salads, ramen | $0.50 – $0.80 each |
What Are Century Eggs?
Century eggs, or pídàn in Mandarin, are a traditional Chinese delicacy made by preserving eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, and other ingredients for several weeks or months. Despite their name, they are not actually a century old; rather, they undergo a chemical process that alters their composition. The result is an egg with a dark green yolk and translucent black or brown egg white, often described as having a unique, pungent aroma.
The Preservation Process
Step 1: Egg Selection
The first step in creating century eggs involves selecting fresh eggs. Traditionally, duck eggs are favored, but quail and chicken eggs are also used. The quality of the egg is crucial to ensure a successful preservation process.
Step 2: The Preservation Mixture
The eggs are coated in a mixture of clay, ash, quicklime, and salt. This combination acts as an embalming fluid, allowing the eggs to be stored for an extended period while developing their distinct flavors.
Step 3: Aging
Once coated, the eggs are buried in the preservation mixture for several weeks to several months. During this time, the pH of the egg rises, causing chemical changes that result in their characteristic flavor and appearance.
Step 4: Rinsing and Packaging
After the aging process, the eggs are carefully rinsed to remove any residue from the preservation mixture. They are then packaged for sale, often found in Asian grocery stores or online markets like shiftychevre.com and www.sayweee.com.
Common Ways to Enjoy Century Eggs
1. Congee
One of the most popular ways to enjoy century eggs is in congee, a rice porridge. The creamy texture of the congee pairs well with the rich, earthy flavors of the century eggs, making it a comforting dish.
2. Salads
Century eggs can be sliced and added to salads, providing a unique flavor profile that contrasts with fresh vegetables. This dish is often served as an appetizer in Chinese cuisine.
3. Sushi
Quail century eggs are a gourmet addition to sushi, offering a delicate flavor that enhances the overall dish. They can be served on their own or incorporated into sushi rolls.
4. Ramen and Noodle Dishes
Century eggs complement various noodle dishes, including ramen. Their creamy yolk adds richness to the broth, making for a satisfying meal.
Nutritional Value
Century eggs are not only unique in flavor but also in nutritional content. They are a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. However, due to their preservation process, they can be high in sodium. The nutritional profile varies based on the type of egg used and the preservation method.
Century Egg Pricing Overview
When it comes to purchasing century eggs, prices can vary significantly based on factors such as the type of egg, packaging, and retail location. For example, at Costco, a box of 20 preserved duck eggs is priced at $13.99, making them a cost-effective option for those wanting to explore this delicacy (www.chowhound.com, www.mentalfloss.com). In contrast, specialty markets like safeselect.ph or shopee.ph might offer higher prices for gourmet varieties.
Century Egg Price Comparison Table
| Type of Century Egg | Price per Unit | Price per Pack (6 pcs) | Price per Pack (20 pcs) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duck Century Egg | $0.70 – $1.00 | $4.20 – $6.00 | $13.99 |
| Quail Century Egg | $1.00 – $1.50 | $6.00 – $9.00 | N/A |
| Chicken Century Egg | $0.50 – $0.80 | $3.00 – $4.80 | N/A |
Key Considerations When Buying Century Eggs
- Freshness: Always check the expiration date and ensure the eggs are sourced from a reputable supplier.
- Storage: Century eggs should be stored in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight to maintain their quality.
- Culinary Uses: Consider how you intend to use the eggs. Different types may be better suited for specific dishes.
Related Video
Conclusion
Century eggs are a fascinating culinary delight that offers an array of flavors and uses in various dishes. From their unique preservation process to their diverse applications in cooking, these eggs provide a cultural experience that transcends their pungent aroma. With a wide range of prices and types available, exploring century eggs can be an exciting adventure for any food lover.
FAQ
What are century eggs made of?
Century eggs are typically made from duck, chicken, or quail eggs that are preserved in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice hulls.
How long do century eggs last?
When stored properly, century eggs can last several months. Always check expiration dates when purchasing.
How do you eat century eggs?
Century eggs can be enjoyed sliced in salads, served with congee, or even used as a gourmet ingredient in sushi.
Are century eggs safe to eat?
Yes, century eggs are safe to eat when purchased from reputable sources and stored properly. However, they can be high in sodium.
Where can I buy century eggs?
Century eggs can be purchased at Asian grocery stores, specialty markets, or online platforms like www.sayweee.com and shopee.ph.
What do century eggs taste like?
Century eggs have a rich, earthy flavor with a creamy texture. The taste can vary depending on the type of egg used.
Can century eggs go bad?
Yes, century eggs can go bad if not stored correctly or if they exceed their shelf life. Always check for off smells or unusual textures before consuming.
How are century eggs different from regular eggs?
Century eggs are preserved through a special process that alters their flavor, aroma, and appearance, unlike regular eggs that are consumed fresh.
Can I cook century eggs?
Yes, century eggs can be cooked, though they are often enjoyed raw or in dishes where they are combined with other ingredients.
What is the cultural significance of century eggs?
Century eggs hold a special place in Chinese cuisine and are often served during festive occasions or as a symbol of longevity and prosperity.
