How To Make a Century Egg

Century eggs, also known as preserved eggs, are a traditional Chinese delicacy 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. The process involves a high level of skill and knowledge of food preservation techniques, and can be dangerous if not done properly. It is recommended to purchase century eggs from a reputable source instead of attempting to make them at home.

Century eggs are a delicacy in some cultures, but the traditional process of making them involves preserving eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice straw for several weeks to several months. It is recommended to only consume century eggs that have been made commercially or by an experienced and reputable chef to ensure safety and quality.

However, if you’re curious about how to make century eggs, the process involves preserving duck or chicken eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, salt, quicklime, and rice straw for several weeks to months. During this time, the pH level of the egg increases, which causes the yolk to turn a dark green or gray color and the white to become a translucent jelly-like texture. The strong and pungent smell of the century egg can be off-putting to some, but it’s considered a delicacy in many Asian cuisines.

Here’s a general process for making century eggs:

1. Take fresh duck, chicken, or quail eggs and brush them with a mixture of clay, wood ash, salt, and quicklime (calcium oxide).
2. Wrap the coated eggs in rice straw, leaves, or paper to help them retain their shape and keep the coating intact.
3. Store the wrapped eggs in a cool, dark place, such as a cellar or underground pit, for several weeks to several months, depending on the desired level of fermentation.
4. After the incubation period, unwrap the eggs and gently rinse off the coating to reveal the preserved egg inside.
5. Slice or chop the century eggs and serve them as a delicacy or use them as a flavoring agent in various dishes.

Note that century eggs have a strong, distinct flavor and texture that may not be appealing to everyone.

In conclusion, making century eggs is a process that requires time, patience, and careful attention to detail. It involves preserving eggs in a mixture of clay, ash, and other ingredients for several weeks or even months. While the process may seem intimidating, the end result is a unique and flavorful delicacy that can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes. As with any recipe, it’s important to follow instructions carefully and take necessary precautions to ensure safety and proper sanitation.