Introduction:
Do you like eating century eggs? In recent years, this phrase has become a popular internet meme in China. It originated from a TV program where a young girl was asked if she liked eating century eggs, and her exaggerated facial expression and response quickly went viral. But what exactly are century eggs, and why are they so popular in China?
1. What are century eggs?
Century eggs, also known as preserved eggs or thousand-year-old eggs, are a type of Chinese preserved food made by preserving duck, chicken or quail eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice straw for several weeks to several months. This process turns the egg white into a jelly-like substance with a salty taste, while the yolk becomes a dark greenish-gray color with a creamy texture and a strong aroma.
2. Why do people like eating century eggs?
Despite their pungent smell and unappetizing appearance, century eggs are a popular delicacy in China and other parts of Asia. Many people enjoy the unique flavor and texture of the preserved eggs, especially when paired with congee (rice porridge) or tofu. Some people also believe that century eggs have nutritional benefits and can aid digestion.
3. What are the different ways to eat century eggs?
Century eggs can be eaten on their own or used as an ingredient in various dishes. Some popular ways to eat century eggs include:
Cut into small pieces and served with pickled ginger and soy sauce
Sliced and served with tofu, scallions, and sesame oil
Chopped and mixed with minced pork to make century egg and pork congee
Wrapped in a thin layer of flour dough and deep-fried to make century egg pastries
Conclusion:
In conclusion, while not everyone may enjoy the taste of century eggs, they are a beloved food item in China and Asia. From their unique preservation process to their variety of ways to eat them, century eggs have become an intriguing topic for foodies around the world. So next time you see the meme "Do you like eating century eggs?", you'll know exactly what it's referring to!