Microwave Mentaiko Chawanmushi (Savory Egg Custard)
Microwave Mentaiko Chawanmushi (Savory Egg Custard)
Easy Microwave Mentaiko Chawanmushi Recipe
Experience the melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and savory umami of mentaiko (spicy cod roe) with this incredibly easy microwave egg custard. Perfect for a quick breakfast or a simple side dish, this Mentaiko Chawanmushi is a delightful and elegant addition to any meal.
Ingredients- 3 large fresh eggs
- 1 piece mentaiko (spicy cod roe, about 30g)
- A little mentaiko for garnish
- 1 Tbsp finely chopped green onion
- 1/3 tsp salt (or seasoned salt)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- A pinch of black pepper
- A sprinkle of sesame seeds
- 150ml dashi stock (made from kombu)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1
First, prepare the mentaiko. Carefully slice it open lengthwise with a knife and then gently scrape out the roe with a teaspoon. Set aside.
Step 2
In a small bowl, steep a 10cm piece of kombu (kelp) in about 150ml of lukewarm water for 10 minutes to create a simple dashi stock. This will add a subtle depth of flavor and enhance the texture.
Step 3
Crack the 3 eggs into a mixing bowl. Gently whisk them with a mini whisk or chopsticks until just combined. Avoid over-whisking to prevent too much foam, which can affect the custard’s smooth texture.
Step 4
Add the prepared mentaiko roe and the 150ml of dashi stock to the whisked eggs. Sprinkle in a pinch of black pepper to help balance the flavors.
Step 5
Stir everything together gently. Season with 1/3 tsp of seasoned salt (or regular salt) to taste. It’s important to taste and adjust the seasoning as mentaiko can be salty on its own.
Step 6
Stir in the finely chopped green onion and the sesame oil. The green onion adds a fresh aroma and the sesame oil contributes a lovely nutty flavor.
Step 7
Pour the egg mixture into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover it loosely with plastic wrap and poke several small holes in the wrap with a fork or toothpick. This allows steam to escape during cooking. Microwave on high for 4 to 5 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on your microwave’s wattage.
Step 8
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick or chopstick into the center of the custard. If it comes out clean without any liquid egg mixture, it’s fully cooked. If there’s still liquid, microwave in 30-second increments until done.
Step 9
Once cooked, carefully remove the plastic wrap. Garnish with a small amount of mentaiko, a few drops of sesame oil, and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. Your delicious Mentaiko Chawanmushi is ready to be enjoyed!
