Chinese Tomato Recipe: Instant Flavor Boosts for Your Dishes

If you're looking for a classic and delicious Chinese recipe, look no further than Chinese tomato. This comfort food dish is a favourite among many Chinese families and is easy to make at home. With a few key ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a meal that is sure to satisfy.

The history and origin of Chinese tomato is not clear, but it is believed to have originated in the southern region of China. The dish is typically made with fresh tomatoes, eggs, and scallions, and is seasoned with soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Some variations of the dish may also include seafood such as shrimp or squid.

To make Chinese tomato, start by prepping your ingredients and heating up your wok. Once your wok is hot, add your eggs and scramble them until they are cooked through. Remove the eggs from the wok and set them aside. Next, add your tomatoes and scallions to the wok and stir-fry until they are soft and fragrant. Finally, add your eggs back into the wok along with your seasoning and cook until everything is heated through.

Key Takeaways

• Chinese tomato is a classic and delicious comfort food dish that is easy to make at home.
• The dish typically includes fresh tomatoes, eggs, and scallions, and is seasoned with soy sauce, sugar, and sesame oil.
• Variations of the dish may include seafood such as shrimp or squid.

History and Origin

Cultural Significance

Tomatoes have been a part of Chinese cuisine for over a century and have been used in various dishes. The Chinese tomato egg recipe is one such dish that has become a staple in many households. The dish is a perfect example of how Chinese cuisine has evolved over the years, influenced by Western cuisine.

Regional Variations

The Chinese tomato egg recipe has many regional variations, with each region adding its own unique twist to the dish. In Northern China, the dish is known as "Western Persimmon" (xihóngshÌ in Mandarin), while in the South, it is called "Foreign Eggplant" (faankeh in Cantonese). The dish is also popular in Taiwan and Hong Kong, where it is usually served with rice.

Seafood can be added to the dish to give it a unique flavour. Shrimp is a popular seafood ingredient that can be added to the recipe. You can also try using other seafood such as crab or lobster to give the dish a more luxurious taste.

Overall, the Chinese tomato egg recipe is a delicious and easy-to-make dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced cook, this dish is sure to impress your guests. Try it out today and experience the unique flavours of Chinese cuisine!

Key Ingredients

If you're looking to make a delicious Chinese tomato recipe, there are a few key ingredients you'll need to get started. Here are some of the most important ingredients and tips on how to select and use them:

Selecting Tomatoes

When it comes to selecting tomatoes for your recipe, it's important to choose ripe, juicy tomatoes that are bursting with flavour. Look for tomatoes that are firm to the touch and have a bright red colour. Roma tomatoes are a popular choice for Chinese tomato recipes, but you can also use other varieties such as cherry tomatoes or beefsteak tomatoes.

Eggs and Alternatives

Eggs are a staple ingredient in Chinese tomato recipes, and they add a rich, savoury flavour to the dish. If you're looking for an alternative to eggs, you can try using tofu or seafood such as shrimp or crab meat. If you do decide to use seafood, make sure to select fresh, high-quality seafood that is free from any off-odours or discolouration.

Flavour Enhancers

To enhance the flavour of your Chinese tomato recipe, you'll need to use a few key flavour enhancers. Soy sauce, green onion, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and scallion are all popular choices. Salt and sugar are also important ingredients that help to balance out the flavours in the dish. When using these ingredients, be sure to use them sparingly and taste as you go to ensure that the flavours are well-balanced.

Overall, with the right selection of ingredients and a bit of practice, you can create a delicious and authentic Chinese tomato recipe that will impress your family and friends.

Cooking Techniques

Preparing the Base

Before starting your Chinese tomato egg stir-fry, it is important to prepare the base of the dish. This involves cutting the tomatoes into wedges and beating the eggs in a bowl. To achieve the perfect texture, it is recommended to leave the eggs barely cooked and slightly mash the tomatoes.

Mastering the Stir Fry

To master the stir fry, you will need a nonstick skillet and a spatula. Preheat the skillet over medium heat until it just starts to smoke. Add oil and immediately add the eggs. Scramble the eggs and remove from the skillet immediately. Set aside. Add more oil to the skillet, turn up the heat to high, and add the tomatoes and scallions. Stir-fry for a few minutes until the tomatoes are slightly softened.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

To achieve the perfect texture, it is recommended to use a cornstarch slurry. This involves mixing cornstarch and water until well combined. Add the cornstarch slurry to the skillet and stir-fry for a few more minutes until the sauce thickens.

If you want to add seafood to your Chinese tomato egg stir-fry, you can use shrimp or scallops. Simply sauté the seafood in the skillet before adding the eggs and tomatoes. This will add a delicious seafood flavour to the dish.

In summary, to make a delicious Chinese tomato egg stir-fry, you need to prepare the base, master the stir fry, and achieve the perfect texture. With the right techniques and ingredients, you can create a flavourful and satisfying dish that is perfect for any meal.

Serving and Pairing

Accompaniments

Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry is a versatile dish that pairs well with many different accompaniments. Steamed rice is the most common pairing for this dish. The soft and fluffy rice perfectly complements the tender and juicy tomatoes and eggs. You can also try pairing it with jasmine rice, which has a fragrant aroma and a slightly sweet taste.

If you want to add some greens to your meal, you can serve the stir fry with a side dish of bok choy. Bok choy is a type of Chinese cabbage that has a mild and slightly sweet taste. It is also packed with nutrients and is a great source of vitamins A and C.

Wine Pairings

If you want to elevate your meal, you can pair the Chinese Tomato Egg Stir Fry with a glass of Shaoxing wine. Shaoxing wine is a type of Chinese rice wine that has a nutty and slightly sweet taste. It is commonly used in Chinese cooking and pairs well with many dishes.

If you prefer red wine, you can try pairing the stir fry with a light-bodied Pinot Noir. The fruity and slightly spicy notes of the wine complement the sweet and tangy flavours of the dish.

If you are a fan of seafood, you can add some prawns or scallops to the stir fry. The seafood adds a delicious and savoury flavour to the dish. You can also try using fish sauce to enhance the umami flavour of the stir fry.

Variations and Substitutions

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

If you're a vegetarian or vegan, you can still enjoy this delicious Chinese tomato egg stir-fry by omitting the eggs and using a plant-based protein instead. Tofu is a great option as it has a similar texture to eggs and absorbs flavours well. Simply cut the tofu into small cubes and stir-fry it with the tomatoes and other ingredients. Alternatively, you can use seitan or tempeh as a protein substitute.

Alternative Cooking Oils

While peanut oil is commonly used in Chinese cooking, you can use other neutral oils such as vegetable or canola oil if you don't have peanut oil on hand. These oils will work just as well and won't affect the flavour of the dish.

If you're looking to add a different flavour to your stir-fry, you can also use sesame oil. However, be careful not to use too much as it has a strong flavour and can overpower the other ingredients.

Seafood

If you're a seafood lover, you can add shrimp or scallops to this recipe for an extra protein boost. Simply sauté the seafood in a separate pan until cooked through, then add it to the tomato and egg mixture towards the end of cooking. Make sure not to overcook the seafood, as it can become tough and rubbery.

Tomato Sauce and Ketchup

If you don't have fresh tomatoes on hand, you can use canned diced tomatoes or tomato sauce instead. This will give the dish a smoother texture and a slightly sweeter flavour.

For an extra sweet and tangy flavour, you can also add a tablespoon or two of ketchup to the stir-fry. This will give the dish a slightly different flavour profile, but it's a great option if you're looking to switch things up a bit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you make a traditional Chinese tomato egg stir-fry?

To make a traditional Chinese tomato egg stir-fry, you will need eggs, tomatoes, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, and sugar. First, you need to whisk the eggs in a bowl and set them aside. Then, heat some oil in a wok or a frying pan over medium-high heat, and add the scallions and garlic. Stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant, then add the tomatoes and stir-fry for a minute or two until they start to break down. Next, add the soy sauce and sugar, and stir to combine. Finally, pour in the eggs and stir-fry until they are just set. Serve hot with rice.

What's the secret to a perfect tomato egg recipe like they serve in Hong Kong?

The secret to a perfect tomato egg recipe like they serve in Hong Kong is to use the freshest ingredients possible. Look for ripe, juicy tomatoes and free-range eggs. Also, be sure to use a hot wok or frying pan and cook the eggs quickly over high heat to keep them tender and fluffy.

Can you suggest a simple way to prepare a Chinese tomato dish using fresh tomatoes?

Yes, a simple way to prepare a Chinese tomato dish using fresh tomatoes is to make a tomato and egg drop soup. To make this soup, you will need chicken or vegetable broth, fresh tomatoes, eggs, scallions, and sesame oil. First, bring the broth to a boil in a pot, then add the chopped tomatoes and scallions. Let the soup simmer for a few minutes until the tomatoes are tender. Next, beat the eggs in a bowl, and slowly pour them into the soup while stirring gently. The eggs will cook instantly and form delicate ribbons in the soup. Finally, drizzle some sesame oil over the soup and serve hot.

What are the nutritional benefits of combining scrambled egg with tomatoes?

Combining scrambled egg with tomatoes is a nutritious and delicious way to get a good dose of protein, vitamins, and antioxidants. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality protein, while tomatoes are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that may help reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.

Could you explain the origins of the tomato egg stir-fry dish?

The origins of the tomato egg stir-fry dish are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in southern China, particularly in the Guangdong province. It is a simple and humble dish that was popular among the working-class people, who used it as a way to stretch their food budget. Today, it is a staple in Chinese home cooking and is enjoyed by people all over the world.

Why is the tomato and egg combination so popular in Chinese cuisine?

The tomato and egg combination is popular in Chinese cuisine because it is a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. It is also a versatile combination that can be used in many different dishes, from stir-fries to soups to stews. Additionally, it is a simple and affordable way to add nutrition and flavor to a meal.

As a suggestion, you can also use seafood such as shrimp or crab meat to add a delicious twist to your Chinese tomato dish. Simply stir-fry the seafood with the tomatoes and eggs, and season with soy sauce and oyster sauce for a rich umami flavor.