Ingredients Needed
To make a basic Egg Foo Young, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Egg Foo Young:
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or pork (optional)
- 1/2 cup bean sprouts
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup finely chopped bell pepper
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for frying
For the Gravy:
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- A pinch of sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation and Serving Instructions
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by chopping the vegetables and cooking the meat or shrimp if you’re using them. Make sure the meat is cut into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Make the Egg Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until well beaten. Add the soy sauce, sesame oil, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked meat or shrimp, bean sprouts, green onions, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
3. Cook the Egg Foo Young:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, pour in a portion of the egg mixture, about 1/3 to 1/2 cup, depending on the size of your skillet.
- Fry the mixture until the edges are set and the bottom is golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Flip the omelet carefully and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the other side is also golden brown.
- Repeat with the remaining egg mixture, adding more oil to the pan if necessary. Once cooked, place the omelets on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil.
4. Prepare the Gravy:
- In a small saucepan, combine the chicken broth, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in the cornstarch mixture and cook until the gravy thickens, about 1-2 minutes. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve:
- Place the Egg Foo Young omelets on a serving plate. Pour the hot gravy over the top of the omelets and garnish with additional chopped green onions if desired. Serve immediately with steamed rice.
Tips for Perfect Egg Foo Young
- Don’t Overfill: Be cautious not to overfill the omelet with too many ingredients, as this can make it difficult to flip.
- Cook Evenly: Cook the omelets in small batches to ensure they cook evenly and retain their shape.
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the gravy and chop the vegetables in advance to save time when cooking.
Variations
- Vegetarian Egg Foo Young: Omit the meat and add more vegetables like shredded carrots, zucchini, or snap peas.
- Seafood Delight: Use a combination of shrimp, crab meat, and scallops for a seafood-rich Egg Foo Young.
- Spicy Egg Foo Young: Add a bit of chopped chili or a dash of hot sauce to the egg mixture for a spicy kick.
Calorie Information
A single serving of Egg Foo Young (including gravy) typically contains approximately 300-350 calories. This can vary depending on the type and amount of meat or vegetables used, as well as the amount of oil absorbed during frying.
Conclusion
Egg Foo Young is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of Chinese cuisine with the comfort of an omelet. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a side dish, it’s a versatile recipe that can be tailored to your personal taste. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, Egg Foo Young is perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Enjoy this dish with family and friends, and experiment with different variations to make it your own!
