Table of Contents
Tomatoes and eggs stir-fry, also known as “Tomato and Egg Stir-Fry” or “Egg and Tomato Stir-Fry,” is one of the most classic and popular Chinese home-style dishes. It’s simple to make, colorful, and delicious. The dish is often served with steamed rice and is a staple in many households across China.
Ingredients Needed
- Eggs: 3 large
- Tomatoes: 2 medium-sized, ripe but firm
- Salt: to taste (about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon)
- Sugar: optional, about 1/2 teaspoon to balance acidity
- Cooking oil: 2 tablespoons
- Green onions: 1 stalk, finely chopped (optional for garnish)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Crack the eggs into a bowl. Add a pinch of salt and beat them well until the yolks and whites are fully combined.
- Wash the tomatoes and cut them into quarters, then slice them into bite-sized pieces.
- If using green onions, wash and chop them finely for garnishing.
Step 2: Cook the Eggs
- Heat 1 tablespoon of cooking oil in a wok or frying pan over medium heat.
- Pour the beaten eggs into the pan. Let them set for a few seconds before stirring gently with a spatula until just cooked through. Do not overcook. Remove the eggs from the pan and set aside.
Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes
- In the same pan, add another tablespoon of oil if needed.
- Add the tomato pieces and stir-fry for a couple of minutes until they start to soften and release their juices.
- Season with salt and sugar at this point, adjusting to your taste preference.
Step 4: Combine and Serve
- Return the cooked eggs to the pan with the tomatoes. Stir everything together over low heat until well combined.
- Once heated through, remove from heat. Garnish with chopped green onions if used.
- Serve hot with steamed rice.
This dish is an excellent introduction to Chinese cooking because it uses basic ingredients and techniques that you can apply to other recipes. Moreover, it showcases the importance of balancing flavors in Chinese cuisine, where the sweetness of the eggs contrasts beautifully with the tanginess of the tomatoes.
Cultural Note
In Chinese culture, this dish symbolizes harmony and balance due to its combination of colors and flavors. It’s a homely dish that represents warmth and simplicity, making it a favorite among families. Enjoy preparing this dish, and may it bring a piece of Chinese culinary tradition to your table!
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If you want to learn more, please watch this video. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hi_c85H_cPo
