Chawanmushi Egg Flan Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 2 cups of dashi stock
• 1 tsp of soy sauce
• 1 tsp of mirin
• 1 tsp of sake
• 1/2 tsp of salt
• 1 tsp of sugar
• 1/4 cup of cooked shrimp (optional)
• 1/4 cup of shiitake mushrooms (optional)
• 1/4 cup of chopped green onions (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs thoroughly and add dashi stock, soy sauce, mirin, sake, salt and sugar into the bowl. Mix well.
3. Sieve the egg mixture into a separate bowl. This helps to remove any lumps and make the mixture smoother.
4. Divide any added shrimp, mushrooms and green onions equally into four heat-resistant cups.
5. Pour the egg mixture into the cups until it reaches about 90% full.
6. Cover each cup with aluminum foil and place them in a baking dish.
7. Pour hot water into the baking dish, so that the water level reaches about 1/3 of the cup’s height.
8. Carefully transfer the baking dish into the oven.
9. Bake the chawanmushi egg flan for 20-25 minutes or until the eggs are set and cooked.
10. Remove the cups from the baking dish and let them cool for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

• The chawanmushi egg flan can be served either hot or cold. It’s a delicious and delicate dish usually served as an appetizer in a Japanese meal.
• If you like, you can garnish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions or thinly sliced shiso leaves. This adds a refreshing flavor to the dish.
• You can add any other ingredients you like, such as crab meat, steamed fish, carrots, or peas. The possibilities are endless!

Verdict:

Chawanmushi egg flan is an elegant and flavorful dish. The subtle umami taste of the dashi stock blends well with the eggs, creating an irresistible and smooth texture in your mouth. The optional shrimp, mushrooms, and green onions add a punch of flavor, while still being light and refreshing to the palate. This dish is perfect for impressing your guests or for treating yourself to a special meal.