Korean-Style Steamed Egg Custard

Ingredients

• 4 large eggs 4 large eggs
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 green onions, finely chopped 2 green onions, finely chopped
• Salt, to taste Salt, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 120 kcal / 502 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 8g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 2g, 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 0g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, water, soy sauce, sesame oil, and a pinch of salt.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped green onions to the egg mixture and stir well.
3. 3.
   Grease a heatproof dish or individual ramekins with a little oil.
4. 4.
   Pour the egg mixture into the dish(es) and cover tightly with aluminum foil.
5. 5.
   Place the dish(es) in a steamer basket or a large pot with a steamer rack.
6. 6.
   Steam the custard over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until set.
7. 7.
   Remove the dish(es) from the steamer and let them cool slightly before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Eggs — Make sure to whisk the eggs well to incorporate air and create a fluffy texture.
• Soy sauce — If you have a soy allergy or prefer a soy-free version, you can substitute it with tamari sauce or coconut aminos.
• Green onions — Finely chop the green onions to evenly distribute their flavor throughout the custard.
• Sesame oil — Use a high-quality toasted sesame oil for a rich and nutty flavor.
• Salt — Adjust the amount of salt according to your taste preferences.

Tips & Tricks

• For a smoother texture, strain the egg mixture before steaming to remove any lumps.
• To enhance the flavor, you can add a small amount of minced garlic or grated ginger to the egg mixture.
• Serve the Gyeran jjim with a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds for added crunch and nuttiness.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sautéed mushrooms or shredded cheese for a twist on the traditional recipe.
• If you don't have a steamer, you can use a large pot with a tight-fitting lid and a steamer rack.

Serving advice

Serve the Korean-Style Steamed Egg Custard warm as a side dish with steamed rice and other Korean dishes. It can also be enjoyed as a light meal on its own, accompanied by a fresh salad or pickled vegetables.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, garnish the custard with a sprinkle of finely chopped green onions or a drizzle of sesame oil. Serve it in individual ramekins or a decorative dish to showcase its smooth texture.